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At the Law Offices of Dana C. Palmer, they believe that divorce doesn’t have to be so hard.
as a battle, with each spouse trying to extract as much money as possible from the other, then no one ‘wins.’
“What we try to do is get people through a divorce in the healthiest way possible so that everyone can move on to the next chapter in their lives, in the best way possible,” says Dana, creator of the Soft Divorce® brand. “We don’t define success by the other party’s failure. Instead, our goal is for our client, their children, and even their soon-to-be-ex-spouse, to be as healthy as possible after the divorce.”
“I’m the type of person who is always looking for a better way to do something—and when I find that better way, I feel compelled to share it with others,” Dana explains. “That’s why I’m now sharing the Soft Divorce® program worldwide.”
A better way to divorce It’s a concept that Dana created after focusing his law firm in McKinney on family law in 2011. “I opened the firm in 2006, practicing a wide variety of cases. I soon realized that family law cases provided me with the biggest opportunity to help people and that’s when I decided to narrow my focus,” Dana says. Quickly, he says, he saw that when divorce is approached
Dana C. Palmer
Soft Divorce® is a concept and framework of the best practices in family law and divorce procedures that aim to keep divorces civil, family-oriented, healthy and as painfree and stress-free as possible. “I believe in Soft Divorce® because it’s better than a ‘hard divorce.’” Dana says. “At the end of the day, former spouses will always be parents together and they need to have the best possible relationship with one another, as well as with their kids. A Soft Divorce® allows for that.”
Happier, healthier results Of course, the firm’s approach doesn’t mean that they’ll simply “lie down” and take whatever the other party’s attorney is offering. “There are times that we have to, and we do, ‘play hard-ball,’” Dana says. “We go into court knowing that we’ve taken the high road, but we’re willing to do whatever it takes to get the healthy result we’re after.” When prospective clients first hear about the firm’s Soft Divorce brand, Dana says, they’re often relieved to discover that there’s a healthier way to go through the divorce process. “You always see on TV and hear about divorces where people end up hating each other and losing so much,” he says. “We show people a different and better way.” For more information, please call or visit our website.
contents
November 2013
Vol. 23, Issue 11
cover story 58 The Samaritan Inn: Reliving the parable
In 1984, community leaders from around Collin County established The Samaritan Inn, the oldest and largest homeless program in the county. Over the years, the program has expanded exponentially in the face of a growing homeless population. by Peggy Helmick-Richardson
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feature 26 Facebook groups allow users to buy and sell items
Most people use Facebook to keep in touch with friends and share photos. But more are discovering that the social networking site is also a great place to shop and sell things. by Nicole Bywater
special sections 30 kids korner
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Homemade with Love: Christmas Crafts by Deborah Dove
42 pet page
Silvio and Junior
44 business seen
Soft Divorce Yellow House Salon & Boutique Community Trust Bank
46 calendar
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66 people seen
For a chance to win a $50 dining card
Fighting for Allen’s most precious assets… its families. The Law Office of Natalie Gregg moved from Dallas to Allen in 2009 when the firm’s managing partner brought her own family to this community. “My husband and I are passionate about providing our children with the best opportunities to learn and to grow,” says Natalie Gregg.” Allen stood out as a place where we could build the future of our family while also helping others who shared our values.” The move turned out to be a perfect fit for both the family and the firm. For the past two years, Natalie has been rated among the top 2.5% of practicing attorneys as a “Rising Star” in Texas Super Lawyers. She has also been recognized by Huffington Post Divorce and Avvo. “I am grateful for the trust that my clients place in my firm. As a working mother, I particularly
appreciate the challenges faced by families in transition. My goal is not just to represent my clients in court, but to guide them through the complex emotional and financial issues associated with family law.” Natalie is supported by a team that is exclusively focused on the practice of family law. This team includes fellow attorneys Melissa W. Cason and Matthew R. Davis, as well as paralegals Camille Maxwell and Hope Morgan. All attorneys are licensed to practice law in the State of Texas and not certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. “Allen is the home of my family and my firm,” says Natalie. “ I want to help my neighbors who are restructuring their families so that they can preserve their dignity while protecting the future of their children.”
To receive a free 10-minute phone consultation with an attorney, mention this ad when you call the number below.
contents departments civic forum 10
It all comes back to you by Kathleen Vaught
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The Nutcracker
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St. Jude Craft Fair
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Nativity Exhibit 2013
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A season of story and song by Kathy Litinas
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Allen Police Department enhances ways to prevent crime and increase safety by Kathleen Vaught
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The People’s Choice Art Show
Chandler Elementary Fall Carnival
November Films at the library
library
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Barbara Peavy
office administrator Carrie McCormick
advertising sales Sue Hardesty Kris Jones
contributing writers Nicole Bywater Heather Darrow Deborah Dove Tom Keener Dawn Bluemel Oldfield Peggy Helmick-Richardson Keith A. Taylor Marjorie Vaneskahian
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JFK Symposium
Kathleen Vaught
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Mike Howard
Jack Ruby’s Lawyer
Library gallery presents JFK Collection
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Southern Pacific Railroad
cover photo Larry Fleming
helping hands 28
There is joy in giving by Marjorie Vaneskahian
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Junior ROTC marches into Allen by Keith A. Taylor
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It takes one to know one by Heather Darrow
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publisher/editor
by Tom Keener
education
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Allen Image
gardening 40
Destination Inspiration by Dawn Bluemel Oldfield
Allen Image © 2013 by Moonlight Graphics. All rights reserved. Allen Image is published by Moonlight Graphics and individually mailed free of charge to the residents of the Allen area. Subscriptions are available to residents outside the delivery area at a rate of $2.50 per issue—$30 per year. Subscription and editorial correspondence should be sent to:
Allen Image, P.O. Box 132, Allen, TX 75013, 972.727.4569, fax 972.396.0807 or visit our website at www.allenimage. com.
past, partial plate or complete dentures were the only options for massive or total tooth loss. But these can cause complications such as slippage, sores in the mouth from ill fit, increased salivation and difficulty chewing. Today, with All-on-4 Dental Implants, the dentist inserts four titanium implants into a patient’s jawbone, where the original tooth root would have been. Dentures can be immediately placed on these implants, giving the function and look of new teeth the same day with cost effective long-term maintenance. Are you facing total or massive tooth loss and wondering what the best solution is? Are you or your spouse missing out on a good night’s sleep because of snoring? Do you have flaws in your teeth you wish could be corrected? The staff at Allen Family Dental can help with all of these problems, and more. Dr. Lina Lizardi, DDS focuses on general and cosmetic dentistry and has trained with the renowned Pankey Institute. Dr. Marisol Chaves-Trautmann is a Prosthodontist and Implant Restorative Dentist. Both doctors have more than 15 years of experience helping patients feel better about their teeth.
All-on-4 Dental Implants One of the most transformative procedures provided at Allen Family Dental are All-on-4 Dental Implants. In the
“This is a great solution, especially for people who find themselves deciding whether they should try to save their teeth or replace them,” Dr. Chaves-Trautmann explains. “The results are really quite amazing. I’ve seen patients who have been suffering—and the day after having the implants added, they’re like a completely different person because they can talk and chew like they have always wanted.”
Making lives better Lives (and marriages!) can be improved thanks to custom night guards that can reduce or eliminate snoring and sleep apnea. “If someone’s not sleeping well, that can cause a lot of other health issues and personal problems,” Dr. Lizardi says. “There’s no reason someone should have to sleep on the couch just because they or their partner snores.” Another popular procedure at Allen Family Dental, which can have a profound effect on a patient’s life, is dental veneers. These strong, durable coverings are placed on the front of the teeth, providing a smooth, natural-looking surface. Veneers can be used to lighten front teeth that have a natural discoloration that can’t be whitened by bleaching. They’re also used to reshape teeth that are chipped or worn, or to correct uneven spacing. “Being able to change a person’s smile and then see the amazing effect that has on their confidence and self-esteem is very rewarding,” Dr. Lizardi explains. “Even when I’m doing a simple procedure, but one that eliminates a patient’s pain, I’m reminded of why I got into this field–to help people.”
1420 W. Exchange Parkway, Suite 170, Allen
469.342.6644 www.facebook.com/AllenFamilyDental
civic forum
by Kathleen Vaught Are you an Allen resident with a current water bill? Do you have some clutter that you are ready to get rid of? Then you are in luck because the annual Allen Recycles Day is Saturday, November 2!
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Held in the parking lot of Allen City Hall, 305 Century Parkway from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Allen residents with a current water bill can bring recyclable and reusable goods such as pet products, athletic and fitness equipment, household items, eye wear, cell phones, digital cameras, computers, books and gently worn shoes for reuse by someone else in our community or to be recycled in order to provide the least environmental impact. Brought to you by Keep Allen Beautiful, the State of Texas Alliance for Recycling and the City of Allen, this annual event goes a long way to not only getting your clutter clear, but helping others as a result. A new participant in this year’s Allen Recycles Day is Replay Sports who will be on hand to accept gently used youth and adult sports gear for baseball, softball, football, lacrosse, hockey, general fitness and exercise equipment (i.e., elliptical, treadmill, stationary bike, etc.), weights and dumbbells, golf clubs, tennis/racquetball racquets and sports balls. The Allen Animal Shelter will be accepting a wide range of pet products including collars, leashes, toys, pet bowls, brushes, combs, nail clippers and towels. They are also in need of pet food, treats, flea treatments, animal shampoo, laundry detergent and bleach. Clean out your closet and bring your clothing and accessories that you no longer need for the Allen Community Outreach. Please rememÂber all items must be
washed and pre-bagged for trans portation to their sorting facility. ACO is also requesting reusable household items and will provide you with a donation receipt upon request. Help support library programming by bringing your gently used hardback and paperback books, and audio books for the Friends of the Allen Public Library ongoing book sale. Cyclone Aluminum and Steel will accept donations of old computers and all related accessories, copiers, fax machines, telephones, answering machines, printers, ink cartridges, lawn mowers, grills and small electric kitchen appliances. They cannot accept old televisions—please leave those at home! The Shoe Bank is in need of adult athletic shoes and all types of children’s shoes, but please, no flip-flops. The Allen High Noon Lion’s Club will be on hand to accept all frames, eyeglasses, pre s cription sunglasses and accessories. Community Waste Disposal wants your empty, flattened cardboard and Secure On-Site Shredding will provide free on-site shredding of personal documents—just remember to remove clips and binders. In addition to the reuse and recycling collection, Allen ISD students will have recycled art on display in the City Hall rotunda from October 28 through November 2. There will be an awards ceremony to honor top artists at 11 a.m. in the Allen city council chambers on Saturday, November 2. Keep an eye out around town as various groups will be participating in beautification and landscaping projects and roadway and waterway cleanups. If you have an organization who would like to provide a beautification or cleanup project, or to find out more information on Texas and Allen Recycles Day please contact 214.509.4551 or v email cbennett@cityofallen.org. Kathleen Vaught is the senior marketing specialist for the City of Allen.
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The Nutcracker This December will see the 15th anniversary production of Allen Civic Ballet’s Nutcracker. December 10, 1999, marked the performance debut of the newly formed, non-profit ballet company with five company dancers, five apprentice dancers, a rented backdrop and a grant from the Allen Arts Alliance. Since then, the company has doubled its number of dancers, more than doubled its number of performances per season, purchased three backdrops, numerous props, spent a fortune in tutus and tiaras and given out over $10,000 in scholar s hip money to dancers. The Allen Civic Ballet was the vision of five local dancers, all of whom studied with the worldrenowned Nathalie Krassovska, Prima Ballerina of the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo and the London Festival Ballet. Mdme. Krassovska functioned as the company’s artistic advisor, coaching the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. That Cavalier (who was 16 years old at the time) attended Arts Magnet High School in Dallas, obtained his degree (on full scholarship) from Juilliard, and is currently dancing professionally in New York City. His Sugar Plum Fairy, Catharina Moudy, was one of the founding members of the board of the ballet company. She died in 2005. Her family, including her two children, still live in Allen. “All five of us were of a same minds artistically; we are dedicating this performance of Nutcracker to her, and we believe she would have been proud of where the company is today,” says Allen Civic Ballet’s founder, Stefanie Best. The growth of Allen Civic Ballet is obvious in its use
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of the Performing Arts Center at Allen High School and the use of live music, provided by the Allen Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra. But the greatest growth has been in the quality of its dancers. In its formative years, the ballet relied upon the talents of its board members to perform lead roles such as the Snow Queen and the Sugar Plum Fairy. For the past several years, however, these roles have all been danced by the company dancers—all aged 12-21 years. “It was a pleasant surprise the day that I realized that many of my students were turning out to be better dancers than I was,” says Best. The Nutcracker perfor mances are on Saturday, December 21 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, December 22 at 2 p.m. The “Tea with the Sugar Plum Fairy” fundraiser will also return this December. Guests are welcomed into the Snow Queen’s Kingdom and served a de and tea, lemon treats, while characters from the ballet visit each table. Mother Ginger tells the story of the Nutcracker with the help of the characters, after which guests may take pictures with the cast or get autographs on anything from toe shoes to Christmas ornaments. This year’s Tea with the Sugar Plum Fairy will be held on Saturday, December 7, at the Allen Conservatory of Dance, 602 E. Main Street, Suite E. The Allen Civic Ballet is a non-profit organization; sponsorship is available at a variety of levels. For information on how to purchase Nutcracker tickets and Tea reservations, please visit our website at www. allencivicballet.org. v
Started in 1985 with a hand full of crafts made by parishioners, the women of St. Jude Catholic Church hold their annual craft fair in November. It has now grown to include over 90 vendors from the DFW area as well as Oklahoma, Louisiana, Connecticut and Florida. The 2013 Craft Fair will be Friday, November 8, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Saturday November 9, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Shoppers will find an abundance of distinctive holidays gifts and decorative items for the season, as well as an impressive selection of year round home décor. Most of the vendors offer exclusive, handmade items including wooden furniture, decorative glass pieces, one-of-a kind jewelry pieces, floral arrangements, children’s and women’s boutique clothing and
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purses, homemade scented candles and soaps, pet gear, baby gifts, school spirit items, quilts, original ceramic pieces, handmade bath/body products and hand painted decorative art. Each year brings new vendors with exciting new creations as well as the familiar favorites who many have grown to love and count on year after year. You will be able to find something for everyone on your list and a special treasure for yourself as well. Also on hand will be a delicious variety of enticing homemade goodies—cakes, pies, breads and cookies—featured at the annual bake sale sponsored by the Sunshine and Rainbows pre-school. Raffle tickets will be sold and drawings are held daily for a chance to win prizes donated by the vendors. Winners do
not have to be present to win. Hungry shoppers can also visit the St. Jude kitchen for scrumptious homemade snacks. The St. Jude kitchen will once again offer their famous “baked potato” lunch as well as an array of homemade soups, chili and yummy desserts. Proceeds from the craft fair support many of the Women of St. Jude charitable community projects. There will be ample parking so make plans to begin the holiday shopping season with a visit to the St. Jude Craft Fair, 1515 N. Greenville Ave in Allen between Exchange Parkway and Stacy Road. Admission is free. Be sure to visit both the education center and pastoral center so you don’t miss any of the goodies. For more information please visit our website at http://www.stjudeparish.com. v
Nativity Exhibit 2013 The holiday season is full of traditions—whether it’s placing a star atop a freshly cut tree, savoring a bite of a scrumptious family recipe, or lighting a candle to commemorate the past; our traditions reflect what we value most. This year, add a memorable experience to your family tradition by visiting the Nativity Exhibit, hosted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints (LDS) in Allen. The exhibit will be held Friday, December 6, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. and Saturday, December 7, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. The church is located at 1324 West Exchange Parkway in Allen. The event is free and all are welcome. All nativity scenes are on loan from local Allen area residents and are beautifully arranged to provide viewers with a truly memorable experience. Visitors will also enjoy live musical performances scheduled regularly throughout the event. The collection includes over 500 nativity displays, each as unique and varied as their places of origin. The materials range from cardboard to wood to delicate glass. You will discover a set made of hand carved cedar from
Jerusalem, another set formed with clay figures from the mountains of Peru and a unique set of figures with an African flair from Ethiopia. One highlight of this annual tradition is an elaborate Fontanini Nativity from Tuscany, Italy. These world-renowned pieces are highly valued for their ship, detail and craftsman and are rarely displayed on such a large scale. This incredible nativity set, which features over 2000 pieces, depicts the entire village of Bethlehem, including stunning detail of the women at the well, the Three Wise Men and their entourage, a flowing creek and more than 150 villagers. This year, the Fontanini display will include a custom-made background for an even more profound effect. A visit to the Nativity Exhibit provides families and individuals an
opportunity for joyful celebration, a time for quiet reflection and a chance to feel the strengthening power of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Now that is a v tradition worth keeping!
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A season of story and song by Kathy Litinas
The Allen Philharmonic begins its 2013-2014 Season with a concert event dedicated to the memory of President John F. Kennedy. A lifelong supporter and advocate of the arts, Kennedy took the lead in raising funds for a new National Cultural Center, placing the prestige of his office firmly behind the endeavor. Two months after President Kennedy’s assassination in November 1963, Congress designated the National Cultural Center as a “living memorial” to Kennedy and authorized $23 million to help build what is now known as the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. We honor his memory with guest artists whose grace and talent honor the vision JFK had for the arts. A Legacy Remembered… will take place at 2 p.m. on Sunday, November 24, at the Allen Performing Arts Center (PAC) on the campus of Allen High School. Violist Allyson Goodman will perform William Walton’s “Concerto for Viola and Orchestra.” Praised for “fine sensitivity in her solos” by Chicago Classical Review, Allyson Goodman stands out as an artist who captures the uniquely dark and expressive qualities of the viola in her performances while also showing brilliant technique. Most recently taking grand prize at the 2013 Young Texas Artists Music Competition, Allyson has also been a prizewinner in the Irving M. Klein International competition, National Federation of Music Clubs competition and Musicians Club of Women competition. Allyson has performed with many orchestras including the Houston Grand Opera, the New World Symphony and Civic Orchestra of Chicago. She has been a fellow at the Tanglewood Music Center as well as many other festivals including the New York String Orchestra Seminar, Colorado College Summer Music Festival, Artosphere Festival in Arkansas and Margess International Festival in Switzerland. Allison is currently a fellow in the New World Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Michael Tilson Thomas. The Allen Philharmonic is proud to partner with ALLen Read’s One Book project with a performance by Dallas Black Dance Theatre II (DBDT II) of Sergei
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Prokofieff’s Peter and the Wolf. Since its inception, Dallas Black Dance Theatre II has grown in popularity and thrilled audiences with its fresh allure. Under the direction of Nycole Ray, who is among the winners of this year’s Dance Council of North Texas Honors, the dance company performs a diversified repertoire of modern, jazz, African, lyrical and spiritual works. DBDTII will perform an original choreographed work to Albinoni’s “Adagio in G minor for Strings.” Additional orchestral selections for this November 24 performance will include Dmitri Shostakovich’s “Festive Overture, Op. 96” and Benjamin Britten’s “Soirees Musicales,” recognizing the British composer’s 100th anniversary. The Allen Philharmonic invites you to take advantage of special savings by becoming a season subscriber. Benefits include all six concerts for the price of five, complimentary valet parking, concert pricing and seat selection that fit your budget—all designed to provide the very best for you, our patron. For tickets and information, please visit our website www.allenphilharmonic.org or call our office at 972.359.0656. We are delighted to bring our community an exciting concert experience. Please join us. v Kathy Litinas is the president of the APSO Board of Directors.
Allen Police Department enhances ways to prevent crime and increase safety by Kathleen Vaught
Last month, neighborhoods in Allen and all across Texas joined together with their local law enforcement as part the annual National Night Out program. There were block parties, cookouts and
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numerous other special events that helped neighbors get to know each other and, more importantly, visit with police officers on ways to keep our neighborhoods and families safe. Locally, officers with the Allen
Police Department also used the opportunity to share information about recent advancements in oper ations and new programs available to the community. One important behind-the-scenes enhancement is the new records management system that increases APD’s efficiency with data entry, collection and analysis. The new system allows officers to go out in the field to gather and quickly enter extensive details about a crime, improving the ability for detectives to work the case. The system also provides command staff with the ability to quickly review compiled data across Allen to identify crime trends and implement solutions to reduce and prevent them in the future. Another way APD is making strides in both crime prevention and reduction is through the Street Crimes Task Force. This dedicated task force focuses on all aspects of property crimes from suspect development and apprehension to property recovery. The dedicated task force has more time to collaborate with other area law enforcement to share and exchange information, which often results in more leads and the identification of suspects connected to similar types of activities in multiple jurisdictions. As a result of this effort, property crimes have decreased, while the recovery of stolen property has increased. APD also wants to help individuals
prepare and improve upon their own abilities to protect themselves. The APD Community Relations Unit now offers three new classes that focus on what to do in the event of a natural disaster or a potentially dangerous attack. Knowing what to do can make a difference when faced with a lifethreatening situation. Prompted by the severe tornado outbreak of April 2012 where thousands in the Midwest went without power and basic necessities for nearly a month, and in some cases longer, the Emergency Preparedness class is designed to show how anyone can survive a situation like that. The class provides a check list and display of survival items to stock, ways to prepare these basic items for storage in any type of residence and how best to utilize them over the course of an emergency disaster situation. “Emergency preparation is easy,” said Sergeant Jon Felty of the Community Relations Unit. “And, it can literally mean the difference between comfort and distress during times of weather related disasters.” The Active Shooter Civilian Response class provides instructions on what to do if a shooting starts in a public place. With the ongoing occurrence of these incidents around the nation and world, APD wanted to equip residents with tactics that might save lives in a public shooting incident. The instruction focuses on options if confronted by an active shooter, differences between cover and concealment, and how to scout out those options quickly. Both Emergency Preparedness and Active Shooter Civilian Response classes are available to local groups on request and have been incorporated into the Citizens Police Academy, which is offered twice a year. Another new program gives women the tools needed to defend themselves against a criminal attack. Part of the R.A.D. Systems training, this stand-alone course will be offered several times a year through APD. It
includes four sessions of instruction, discussion and self-defense techniques for women of all ages and abilities. “The whole idea of R.A.D. is to prevent an abduction and/or becoming a victim,” explained Felty. “Over 80% of the time, if a female actively resists an aggressor, the attacker will abandon the attack.” The next scheduled set of R.A.D. class sessions will be held on November 11 and 18 and December 2 and 9. The class size is limited to ensure quality
instruction and will be offered several times a year. Find out more at AllenPolice.org where you can also sign up for Citizens Observer to get crime alerts and other important bulletins. To learn more about classes offered, contact Sergeant Jon Felty of the Community Relations Unit at 214.509.4359 or via email at v jfelty@cityofallen.org. Kathleen Vaught is the senior marketing specialist for the City of Allen.
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Snippets The People’s Choice Art Show The fourth annual People’s Choice Art Show exhibit opens Saturday, November 9, in the Allen Heritage Guild’s Depot Museum, 100 East Main in Allen. It will be hosted by Like Minded Friends and sponsored by the Allen Heritage Guild and Market Street at Watters Creek. More than 20 artists including Bryan Sink, Steve Warrick, Pamela Van Laanen, Susan Guardino, Linda Clary, Murray Stein and Amy Chizk will be exhibiting.
Chand ler Elementary Fall Carnival and Winter Bazaar
The show is open to all and will include paintings, photography, sculpture, pottery and assemblages. Visitors can vote for their favorite work in the show, thus becoming the “jury.”
The public is invited to enjoy the 2nd Annual Chandler Elementary School Fall Carnival and Bazaar on Saturday, November 2, at Chandler Elementary, 1000 Water Oak Drive, southwest of E. Bethany Drive and Angel Parkway in Allen. Carnival festivities are from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and include fun games and prizes, bounce houses and a petting zoo. The shopping bazaar will be inside the school’s gymnasium from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and feature more than 40 unique vendors.
The show is open each day from noon until 6 p.m. through the 16th when there will be a grand reception, 7-10 p.m., when the People Choice winners will be announced and cash awards presented. Fine wines, refreshments and an assortment of delicious hors d’oeuvres by Market Street will be available at the grand reception. For more information call 214.246.4397. v
Hot dogs, chips, drinks, cotton candy and popcorn will be available for purchase. All-inclusive wristbands and activity punch cards will also be sold at the event. Proceeds benefit the Chandler Elementary PTA in support of student instructional materials and equipment, as well as school programs. Vendor booths and corporate sponsorships are available through September 30. To apply, or for more information, email PTA Chair Amy Sievert at tsievert75002@yahoo.com. v
November Films at the library
November 5—The Manchurian Candidate (1962), starring Frank Sinatra, Laurence Harvey, Janet Leigh and Angela Lansbury. A former Korean War POW is brainwashed by communists into becoming a political assassin, but another former prisoner may know how to save him. November 12—Executive Action (1973), starring Burt Lancaster, Robert Ryan and Will Geer. Rogue intelligence agents, right-wing politicians, greedy capitalists and freelance assassins plot and carry out the JFK assassination in this speculative agitprop.
November 19—JFK (1991), directed by Oliver Stone, this thrilling film garnered two Oscars and stars Kevin Costner, Jack Lemmon and Edward Asner. A New Orleans D.A. discovers there’s more to the Kennedy assassination than the official story. November 26—In the Line of Fire (1993), starring Burt Lancaster, John Malkovich and Rene Russo. Secret Service agent Frank Horrigan couldn’t save Kennedy, but he’s determined not to let a clever assassin take out this president. All films are free and begin at 7 p.m. each Tuesday night. Trailers especially designed for this film series begin at 6:45 p.m. Call 214.509.4905 for more information. v
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library
JFK Assassination Symposium by Tom Keener The Allen Public Library offers its patrons eyewitnesses to historic events at 7 p.m., Wednesday, November 20. Sponsored by Bach to Books, this program is free and no reservations are required. The library is located at 300 N. Allen Drive. Call 214.509.4911.
Jim Leavelle—7 p.m.
Even those born years after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy are familiar with the detective dressed in a light-colored suit and sporting a matching hat, who escorted a handcuffed Lee Harvey Oswald to a waiting police car on Sunday, November 24, 1963. Many recall Detective James Leavelle’s look of shock and horror as Jack Ruby lunged forward and shot and mortally wounded the accused presidential assassin with a .38 revolver in front of millions of television viewers. Robert Jackson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph captured this historically famous moment, which made Leavelle one of the most recognizable police officers in history. A native of Detroit, Texas, he was assigned the responsibility of investigating the murder of Dallas Police Officer J.D. Tippit that occurred shortly after the assassination of President Kennedy. Leavell personally questioned Lee Harvey Oswald. “When I interrogated him, it was about the officer’s murder, not the president’s. He had not been accused of that yet,” Leavelle recalled. “He kept telling me, ‘I didn’t shoot any officer.’” While escorting Oswald in the basement of the Dallas Police Department headquarters to transfer him to the Dallas County Jail, Leavelle declared, “Lee, I hope that if anybody shoots at you, they are as good a shot as you were.” He said Oswald grinned and replied, “Nobody’s going to be shooting at me.” His prediction proved faulty, and moments later Oswald was rushed to Parkland Hospital where he died during surgery.
Jim Marrs, Beverly Oliver and Coke Buchanan—8 p.m.
Award winning journalist Jim Marrs is the author of Crossfire: The Plot That Killed Kennedy. In 1989, his book was published to critical acclaim and reached the New York Times Paperback Non-Fiction Best Seller list. It became a basis for the Oliver Stone film, JFK—a film that garnered two Oscars—and Marrs served as a chief consultant for both the film’s screenplay and production. A former police reporter for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, he taught a class on the assassination of John F. Kennedy at the University of Texas at Arlington for 30 years.
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Beverly Oliver, once a friend of Jack Ruby, a singer at the Colony Club and co-author of Nightmare in Dallas, shares startling revelations about Kennedy’s assassination based on her riveting personal experiences. On November 22, 1963, Garland native Beverly Oliver was a 17-year-old teenager who was suddenly thrust into a pivotal chapter in American history. Her story of this event begins that summer when she accompanied Jack Ruby to New Orleans where she met mafia bosses Johnny Roselli and Carlos Marcello. Shortly after that, she recalls Ruby introducing her at his Dallas nightclub, the Carousel Club, to Lee Harvey Oswald as a friend of his. Beverly Oliver shares that on Thursday evening, November 21, 1963, after having dinner with Jack Ruby at the Egyptian Lounge, she accompanied him to the plush Cabana Motor Hotel where an owner of various Pepsi Cola franchises was hosting a lavish party. After dancing and socializing, Ruby and Beverly departed heading to different destinations and into the pages of history. When asked to describe Ruby, Beverly responded, “Complex, but he was always a gentleman with me.” Beverly states that she was the infamous and mysterious “Babushka” lady seen standing on the south side of Elm Street when President Kennedy was assassinated the following day. She was therefore one of the closest witnesses to the fatal shot that killed President Kennedy. To be an eyewitness to this event is significant enough, but that her story conflicts with the Warren Commission’s account of what happened that day is of much greater interest. Further, she claims that she filmed the event with her new movie camera, but three days later, two men who identified themselves as government agents confiscated her film and never returned it, even after repeated requests. Co-author Coke Buchanan serves as director of the Center for Indigenous Culture, Center for Global and Local Outreach and Center for Spirituality with the Memnosyne Foundation. After the program, the authors will have their books available for purchase and signing. v Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with the Allen Public Library.
Mike Howard
Jack Ruby’s Lawyer
Mike Howard, a retired U.S. Secret Service special agent who served the White House detail during the Kennedy and then-vice president Lyndon Johnson’s administration, will speak at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, November 14, at the Allen Public Library. Howard will reflect on his services to the family of the 35th President as well as the first families that followed. Sponsored by Bach to Books, this program is free. On November 22, 1963, Howard was scheduled to meet the President at Dallas Love Field. After participating with a security sweep of the President’s hotel, Howard was driving to the airport to meet the President’s airplane when a “shots fired” alarm was broadcast over the radio. The agents’ itinerary changed and they frantically raced to Parkland Memorial Hospital instead of Love Field.
Winston Smith, son of Jack Ruby’s lawyer—the late Hubert Winston Smith—will appear at the Allen Public Library, 3 p.m., Friday, November 22. Revealing information that has been confidential for a half century, Winston will shed light on another story that has not been made public until this time. Fifty years ago, Winston served as an office assistant to his father. His assignments included typing up the notes of the private investigators who were working for his father and organizing the depositions. A graduate of both Harvard Medical and Harvard Law School, Hubert Winston Smith served in a dual capacity while defending Jack Ruby. Melvin Belli, Ruby’s first attorney, hired Mr. Smith for his medical expertise. Melvin Belli was fired by the Ruby family and replaced by Percy Foreman who later quit. Ruby’s brothers and sister hired Professor Hubert Winston Smith, then head of the University of Texas Law School’s Law-Science Institute, to replace Foreman. Smith’s first request to the court was to permit a new series of medical and mental tests on Jack Ruby. At the insistence of the University of Texas Law School, Smith resigned from Ruby’s case and returned to teaching. While a new trial date was being set, Ruby died of cancer. v
Shortly after the passing of President Kennedy, Howard’s detail was charged with guarding Oswald’s family. “I was told that President Johnson was the one who said, ‘I don’t want that boy’s family killed,’” Howard recalls. He and his fellow agents brought Oswald’s wife Marina, mother Marguerite and two children to a highly secret location. “President Kennedy was really a nice fellow,” noted Howard. “He liked the agents. He always spoke to us. He spoke to everybody. He was very congenial, a good man to work with.” Howard continued a friendship with the Johnson family and their daughter, Lynda, long after they departed the White House. Howard later attended Lady Bird Johnson’s funeral at the LBJ Museum in Austin in 2007 and attended the family’s private funeral on the family’s ranch. A resident of Collin County, Howard participates with Sixth Floor Museum memorials and speaks to civic and school groups about this pivotal chapter in American history. v
Library gallery presents JFK Collection Rare artifacts about our 35th president, John F. Kennedy, and his assassination in Dallas will be featured in the library’s gallery in November. The display includes archival photographs, newspapers and records. The collection’s newspaper accounts of the tragic weekend begin on Friday, November 22 and end with Kennedy’s funeral November 26. A unique photograph of only Robert Kennedy, John Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson, donated by the estate of the late State Representative Ben Lewis, is an exhibit highlight. Very few photos of these three men together exist. The gallery is free and open during normal business hours. Call 214.50.4911 for more information. v Allen Image x November 2013
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Southern Pacific Railroad by Tom Keener
Dr. Don Hofsommer chronicles the 20th century history of a transportation icon, the Southern Pacific Railroad, at 3 p.m., Saturday, November 9, at the
Allen Public Library. Author of The Southern Pacific Railroad, 1901-1985, Dr. Hofsommer will highlight the triumph and decline of a premiere railroad and
discuss some of its popular routes—the Sunset Route and Prosperity Special. Sponsored by Bach to Books, this program is free. The Southern Pacific, its predecessor Houston and Texas Central and its successor, Union Pacific, traversed Allen from 1874-1996. Railroad tracks, depot and the stone dam site are all that remain of an industry that gave birth to our community. By 1900, the Southern Pacific Railroad was becoming an industry giant and was led by railroad tycoon E. H. Harriman, who took it to preemi nence among American corporations. Specializing in the transportation history and history of the American West, Dr. Hofsommer teaches at St. Cloud State University, which is located on the banks of the Mississippi River in St. Cloud, Minnesota. He has also written Katy Northwest: The Story of a Branch Line Railroad and The Quanah Route: A History of the Quanah, Acme, & Pacific Railway. The library is located at 300 N. Allen Drive. Call 214-509-5911 for v more information. Tom Keener is the cultural arts manager with the Allen Public Library.
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feature
groups allow users to buy and sell by Nicole Bywater
Most people use Facebook to keep in touch with friends and share photos. But more are discovering that the social networking site is also a great place to shop and sell things like clothing and accessories, baby and kid toys, furniture and other household items. “I love these sites because they’re convenient, have great deals and allow people to recycle and reuse things they don’t need anymore,” says Flavia De Fina, who discovered Facebook shopping this summer after her neighbor added her to some groups. “I check them at least a few times a day because you never know what you’re going to find.”
Convenience is key
Anyone on Facebook can join any number of the dozens of local groups with “virtual” garage sales. Some are limited to certain cities, while others include Collin County or the Dallas area. Some groups focus on a certain
category such as kids items, furniture, books or clothing/ accessories (men’s and women’s), while others are open to any kind of items. Shoppers on the sites can scroll through the group news feed or photos to see items and descriptions posted by other locals. If someone is interested in a listing, they can post a comment or a question and the sale is arranged from there. Facebook’s message function allows buyers and sellers to communicate details such as their address or phone number privately. And because so many people are already checking Facebook on a daily basis, communicating about these purchases is easy. “I used to go to garage sales on Fridays, but I don’t have to do that anymore since these sites are even easier to shop on,” Flavia says. “I find great things on my computer and can pick them up when it’s convenient.” Flavia, her husband and their two children, moved to Allen in 2012 after living in India, New Jersey, Florida and then Argentina. “Because of all the moving, we’ve kept pretty much just the essentials, so our house was pretty bare,” says Flavia, who often travels to McKinney or Frisco for her buys. “Thanks to theses sites, I’ve found so much wall art and all at great prices.” Because privacy settings vary, some group activities can appear in your regular Facebook activity, so some people have created new Facebook profiles to keep their buying and selling separate from their personal page.
All about the timing
Flavia De Fina with furniture and wall art she bought on Facebook.
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Anyone can sell items by posting a photo and a description. They get to clear out things they’re not using or no longer need—often receiving more cash than what they might get at a consignment or resell store, and without
having to take their things anywhere. And they get to know their item is going to a new home to benefit someone else. “I’ve had nothing but good experiences buying and selling things on Facebook,” says Laurie Ottinger, an Allen mother with two teenage daughters. “One daughter has found Miss Me jeans in great condition for $40, and these are over $100 new.” Laurie’s favorite purchase was one for herself though—a pair of like-new Coach shoes for $18. “I just happened to jump on the site when they were posted and they happened to be my size,” Laurie says. She was also happy when a group posting helped her find someone to disassemble and take away a free play fort from her backyard. “We just wanted it gone, so that was great to find someone who could take it away and use it,” she says. Depending on the item and seller preference, a transaction can be done at a meeting point. More commonly, though, sales are done through “porch pickup,” where the seller leaves the item on their porch at an agreed upon time and the buyer picks it up whenever they can, leaving payment under the doormat. “I’ve never had anyone not pay,” Laurie says. “About the worst that happens is that someone might not show up Stephanie Howard in her Parker home with some of her favorite purchases when they say they will.” from Facebook including the table, the decorative balls, the picture frames, And while there are plenty of new items for the clock and the iron wall pieces. sale on the sites, Laurie cautions users to ask questions about the condition of used items, and to not much wear or use before they are outgrown or no longer be afraid to walk away if an item has been needed, as well as furniture at prices you couldn’t find misrepresented. anywhere else. “It only happened to me once, but I went to pick up Her two best Facebook “finds” have been a dining some Pottery Barn floor cushions that the seller said had room set with a large farmhouse table and eight chairs for a small stain that would probably come out when $300, and an antique metal bed for her guest room that washed,” she says. “When I got there, I could see that Stephanie bought for just $15. “With the table, they even they were pretty heavily stained and I just had to leave delivered it to me because they just needed it out of their them.” house,” she says. While approving members and their posts and keeping spam off the site does take her time, Stephanie says she enjoys being able to provide a service that helps Stephanie Howard created the “Allen & Plano her community. Garage Sale Group” 18 months ago and also serves as “Not everyone wants to go out to garage sales on the admin on the “Second Time Around Kid’s Consignment weekends,” she says. “They either want to sleep in, or Group.” She created the garage sale site after stumbling they have kids sports games or other things to do. This onto one for Wylie. “I loved the idea, but I got tired of allows people to buy and sell with more convenience.” going to Wylie to pick things up, so I started one for Buying and selling groups can be found through the people in Allen, Plano, McKinney and Fairview,” says Facebook search function and once you belong to one, Stephanie. “It took about two weeks before it got going, Facebook will typically give other “Suggested Groups” but now we have over 9,000 members.” on the right side of the screen. For a list of local groups, Stephanie, a mother of two and author/blogger of you can also visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ “Couponing—A Mom’s Sport,” loves the deals available CollinCountyGroupDirectory. v on these sites, especially for kids’ items that don’t get
Benefit to the community
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helping hands
There is joy in giving by Marjorie Vaneskahian
Tears ran down her face as she walked over and gave me a hug. “Thank you,” was all she could get out of her sobs at first. I knew she was grateful, relieved that she was leaving the ACO Food Pantry with a car filled with free groceries. We had known each other for years. Several years ago she was an Allen Community Outreach volunteer. In the past she had donated food and clothing, volunteered her time and gave funds to our annual campaign each year. Then something happened and it stopped. By chance I ran into her that day as she was leaving the pantry and we spoke. She said life had thrown her a few curve balls, but things were getting better thanks to the assistance and support she was receiving at ACO. I was relieved too, knowing that we were helping her. She’s just one of several hundred families who depend on ACO each month for food, clothing, help with rent and utility payments, GED classes, Meals-On-Wheels deliveries, school supplies and assistance during the holidays. These aren’t just families
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who live in poverty, or homeless people living on the streets. These are folks like me, like our volunteers and donors who, by chance or circumstance, faced a crisis they didn’t expect and needed somewhere to turn for assistance. Allen Community Outreach is that place now, and has been for 28 years, supporting families in our local communities. ACO is a non-profit human services agency, a tax exempt 501(c)3 organization that is supported by private donations, grants and fundraising events. It is not a government agency—it depends on the community to support it and we thank you for all you do. Hundreds of families depend on us for assistance during the holidays. The despair families face in a financial crisis is only heightened during this time of year. But, thanks to the generous community we live in, families don’t have to face these issues alone. ACO is here to help. November is our largest food drive of the year. We collect “holiday dinner type” groceries and staples for families to prepare a celebratory meal for the
holidays. Beginning in early November, food donations begin coming into the ACO Food Pantry and collection spots around town. For a list of items needed and drop off locations, go to ACO’s website at www.acocares.org. The week prior to Thanksgiving, hundreds of volunteers work together to sort the donations and box up the food. The Monday of Thanksgiving week families come to pick up a turkey and a box of groceries. Hundreds more boxes are stored to be distributed a few weeks later in time for Christmas. To volunteer your time, make a financial donation or for information on food items needed, see www. acocares.org or call 972.727.9131. Just as folks are clearing the dishes on Thanksgiving day and planning their shopping for Black Friday, our volunteers are preparing to kick off the ACO Toys For Our Tots drive which begins the day after Thanksgiving. Allen Fire Stations, the ACO offices and other drop off locations will all be collecting toys for Collin County children. All we ask is that you drop off a new, unwrapped toy or gift item. Don’t forget gifts for teens. It’s easy to overlook our 12-17 year olds who also want to be remembered at Christmastime. Want to get even more involved this holiday and help a family? ACO’s Christmas Adoption Program will give you that opportunity. It’s heartbreaking for a parent who struggles to barely pay the rent and keep the electricity on to have to face the holidays knowing they can’t provide toys and gifts for their families. Through our program, parents can come in and sign up children, teens and seniors in their families. They fill out a wish list for each “adoptee.”
Donors can go to our website and register to adopt a child, teen or senior. You’ll be matched and given the wish list of that person. Then you’ll shop and return the gifts to ACO by the
deadline. We will distribute your gifts to the families the week before Christmas—we even provide giftwrap, tape, bows and boxes for parents to go home and wrap it all up! The average cost of an adoption is about $100 and we ask that you provide all new, unused items as gifts. Many wish lists have much-needed coats or clothes listed with sizes. Each child can request a special item or toy as well. You can play Santa to a family who needs a little extra assistance this Christmas. All of the information and more details about the program and volunteer opportunities are on the ACO website at www.acocares.org. It’s hard to live in an affluent area like Allen and struggle financially. It is hard to recognize a hungry child in our town. But families in our neighborhoods throughout our communities struggle to make ends meet, to find a job and feed their children. It’s embarrassing to have to
ask for help. This holiday season help Allen Community Outreach help these families with food and gifts. Make it a family project and have your kids help grocery shop for food donations and take them with you to select toys and gifts for the person you adopt or toys you drop off at a Toys For Our Tots collection location. Share the joy of giving to others in need with your own family. After all, giving is what it’s all about. A special thank you to all of our donors and volunteers who give generously and work tirelessly to make sure that programs are supported and families are cared for. You can make a difference in many lives. Visit Allen Community Outreach, the ACO Resale Shop and ACO Food Pantry at 801 E. Main Street in Allen. Our web address is www.acocares.org and phone is 972-727-9131. v Marjorie Vaneskahian is the director of volunteer services and ACO.
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kids korner
Homemade with Love: Christmas Crafts By Deborah Dove Kids are naturally giving and artistic. Why not let your child make the gifts they give this holiday season? Following are some ideas for everyone on their list. Gifts for Grandparents Personalized Plates Sharpie (either black or multiple colors) Inexpensive plain white plates from the dollar store Stencils (optional) Have your child draw a picture on a plate with Sharpies, either freehand or using stencils to make a pattern. Bake in oven at 350º to set picture. Fill with cookies and tie up in clear cellophane and festive ribbon. * This idea also works well with coffee mugs and can be packaged with a Starbucks gift card or small package of coffee. Rice Filled Heating Pad Socks (the prettier the better) 1 lb. rice per sock Funnel Wrap the opening of the sock around the funnel and secure with a rubber band. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, pour rice into the funnel to fill the sock (if it gets stopped up, use a pencil to push the rice through). Tie the end of the sock. Don’t forget to include instructions on how to use as a heating pad. Instructions: Microwave in one-minute increments until heating pad is the desired temperature.
Gifts for Mom or Sister Washer Necklaces Metal washers Nail polish (assorted colors, plus white and clear) Ribbon or leather cording Paint washer with a base coat of white nail polish. Let dry. Add additional colors in
stripes, polka dots, patterns, etc. Top the finished design with a protective coat of clear nail polish. Attach ribbon or cording to make a necklace. Homemade Sugar Scrub 3/4 cup sugar 1/2 cup olive oil Essential oil Mason jar Measure sugar and oil in a bowl and mix together well. Add 4-6 drops of essential oil (peppermint is nice for the holidays) and mix well. Transfer to mason jars and tie with a bow.
Gifts for Dad
Duct Tape Wallet Roll of duct tape Tear four strips of duct tape about 7”-8” long. With the sticky side up, slightly overlap the pieces to create a “fabric” sheet. Repeat with four more strips, laying them on top of the four you have already overlapped (sticky side to sticky side). Fold sheet in half. Trim excess off of edges so there is no sticky tape exposed and edges are even. Cut another strip slightly longer than your wallet and cut or tear it in half length-wise. Place along long sides of the wallet halfway, folding it over the edge of the wallet to leave a clean edge. Trim edges. To make pockets, cut three 14” pieces of duct tape. Stick two of the pieces sticky side to sticky side. Cut or tear third piece lengthwise down the middle. Place along edge of the twosided piece half-way and fold
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over to seal. Cut the strip into four equal squares to make the pockets (they will be several inches long—big enough to hold a credit card but not big enough to stick out over the edge of the wallet). Stagger two squares slightly on top of each other and tape into place with a strip of tape down the middle and on the sides of the pocket. Fold wallet so that pockets are facing out and tape the sides closed. Trim. Fold in half. *You can also use two contrasting colors or patterns. Art Coaster 4 ceramic tile samples (purchase at a hardware store) Paint/paint brushes Felt White glue Let your child paint the tile squares however they want. Let dry for 24 hours. Varnish over the paint with two coats of varnish (adult job!) to waterproof. Once varnish is dry, cut felt and glue to the back of the coaster.
Gifts for Friends Earth Crayons Blue and green crayons Paper muffin cups Peel paper off of crayons and break crayons into small pieces. Put the equivalent of one green crayon and two blue crayons into each paper baking cup, mixing crayon pieces. Put cups on baking sheet and bake at 200 degrees for 5-10 minutes or until crayons have melted but the wax is not completely mixed. Cool for one hour. Peel
away paper cups—crayons look like planet Earth. Slime 1 teaspoon Borax powder 1-1/2 c. water, divided 4 oz. (1/2 cup) Elmer’s glue Red or green food coloring (or colors of your choice) Glitter Fill a small bowl with one cup of water and add one teaspoon of Borax powder. Mix until the Borax is dissolved and set aside. Pour glue into a medium mixing bowl and add 1/2 cup of water. Add about four drops of food coloring to the glue mixture. Stir it up and add glitter. Now add the Borax mixture to the glue mixture and wait for it to solidify. Mix it up with your hands. Pour out the excess water and knead the mixture until it becomes more firm and dry. When you’re done playing with it, store in a Ziploc bag or other air tight container and give to your friends.
Gifts for Teachers Melted Perler Bead Ornaments Perler Beads Simple metal cookie cutters (the kind that are just a frame of a shape) Put cookie cutter on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Arrange beads inside the cookie cutter in a single layer, pushing beads down to form single layer. Bake at 400º for ten minutes. Let cool for an hour, and then carefully punch out. String ribbon through one of the top holes to hang.
education
Junior ROTC Marches into Allen High by Keith A. Taylor Hundreds of Allen High School students are marching to the beat of a different drummer with the debut of the campus’ U.S. Marine Corps Junior ROTC program. “We knew there was a strong interest in a JROTC program in Allen,” said Maj. Tom Connor, the senior Marine Instructor for the program. “However, the initial response has been incredible. We wanted to hit the ground running and I think we’ve exceeded expectations.” Maj. Connor is joined by two other retired Marines, Sgt. Maj. Bruce Cole and Master Sgt. David Robinson, to lead the daily schedule of classroom instruction and after hours drills.
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“Our intention is to build a program focusing on building citizenship, leadership and character,” said Connor. “We also want to lay a firm foundation to grow and expand our enrollment.” The JROTC classes are housed in the school’s new Career and Technical Education (CTE) wing and fit easily into the district’s strategy for successful graduates, said AHS Executive Principal Steve Payne. “We want to produce wellrounded, leadership-oriented grad uates, whether they are bound for college or a career,” Payne said. “The Marine JROTC curriculum is a perfect fit to our goals.”
The program, with more than 320 enrolled, took a long road before becoming a reality. “We first started looking at the program in 2006,” said Allen High School Executive Principal Steve Payne. “We started talking with an instructor in the Wylie school district, but we ran into some budget restrictions and the process was frozen.” Then, when the district was able to apportion funds for the program, the federal government cut back on funding new programs. “We had applied for a program with the Air Force, Army and Marines,” he said. “However, the Army already had as many high school programs as
they needed and a long waiting list, so we narrowed our choices down to the Air Force and Marines.” The high school was placed on a waiting list with the hope that another school would drop its program and make room for Allen. “Then, federal funding was cut again and all of the service branches stopped funding new programs. So, there was no more list,” Payne said. The idea remained dormant until 2011 when Payne received a phone call from Marine Lt. Col. Mark Stroman. The officer explained that the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps were offering a new program that split the cost of a JROTC platoon between the school district and the service branch. “I told him we were still interested. With the help of the Board of Trustees and my colleagues we put together a plan to introduce the program to the campus,” he said. The Marine Corps JROTC accredited curriculum emphasizes citizenship and leadership develop ment. Classroom instruction is augmented throughout the year by
extra-curricular activities including community service, academic, athletic, drill and orienteering competitions, marksmanship sports training, and physical fitness training. The Marine Corps certifies the instructors for the program through an application and screening process to ensure physical, mental and moral fitness. The instructors must pass the same background checks required of all Allen ISD teachers in order to be hired and to administer the program.
Connor said one of the major challenges of starting a program from scratch is finding and nurturing the cadet leadership. “At the beginning of the year, we are focused on identifying student leaders,” Connor said. “We also had a group of cadets attend a regional leadership camp this summer. We are looking for higher-echelon students to fill our senior leadership roles regardless of their grade level.” One way to identify the leaders is
Major Tom Connor with his JROTC class. Allen Image x November 2013
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Master Sgt. David Robinson gives instructions to JROTC cadets. through the work and actions of cadets during community service activities. During the summer, some cadets joined with an Eagle Scouts on a project to clean up beneath the bridge over Cottonwood Creek on St. Mary’s Street next to the Heritage Guild village. “We picked up trash and painted over graffiti,” the major said. “However, we also wanted the cadets to get to know each other and the instructor while building team skills.” Since August, cadets also have had the opportunity to participate as color guards at recent pep rallies as well as the opening of the new Lois Lindsey Elementary School. Although the program is based on Marine Corps values of honor, courage and commitment, it is not a military recruitment vehicle. “Cadets who attend have no obligation to enter military service,” Connor commented, adding that the program is not a “boot camp” for students needing discipline. “We only want students who want to be in the program and participate in our activities.” However, if students do decide on a military career, being a cadet offers some advantages. The experience gives an edge to students competing for college ROTC scholarships or
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military academy appointments as well as accelerated promotions if they decide to enlist in the military. Besides attending classes, the cadets have to commit to other requirements to remain in the program. They have to wear a military-style uniform once a week, maintain acceptable grooming standards in or out of uniform, participate in physical training and drill, maintain high
standards of conduct, pass classes and participate in JROTC events. JROTC helps develop the selfdiscipline and self-confidence cadets need to meet future stresses and succeed in adult life. “We expect the cadets to be committed and self-motivated,” Connor said. JROTC courses are offered to students in ninth through the twelfth grades. The program is concentrating on recruiting freshmen and sophomore students during the first year. However, Payne emphasized that the school wanted to give students at every level an opportunity to join the program. “This JROTC program provides an opportunity to fill another niche for our students. We are excited about our first year with the Marines,” Payne said. “Since we have a large high school, we are always looking for activities to involve as many students as possible. Some of our students really wanted a program such as this and I’m proud we are able to offer it.” v Keith Taylor is a public relations specialist for Allen ISD.
Cadets clean up beneath the St. Mary’s Street bridge with help from Marine Instructor Sgt. Major Bruce Cole.
It takes one to know one Student’s honors class leads to Austrian adventure by Heather Darrow
Some people shy away from new things and find change challenging. Others cannot wait to play with the latest devices and delight in all things new. Michael Viacheslavov fits perfectly into the latter group. In a word—he’s curious. This particular person ality trait recently led him on a journey across the Atlantic Ocean, more than 5,000 miles from home.
Curiosity catapults the scholar
It all started with an assignment for a Collin College psychology honors class. Viacheslavov, a sophomore pursuing a degree in cognitive science, decided to write a research paper about kea parrots. Ironically, the subjects of his research share his curiosity and are neophilic—lovers of new things. Viacheslavov learned that unlike many animals that are hesitant or flee in the face of new items, keas actually move toward unfamiliar objects. During his research, Viacheslavov discovered an abstract for an article discussing the keas’ abilities to use tools in captivity written by Austrian scientist Dr. Alice Auersperg and other kea experts. Viacheslavov’s psychology professor, Jennifer O’LoughlinBrooks, en couraged him to request the full article from the authors. Emboldened by his
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professor ’s confidence, Viacheslavov began communicating with Dr. Auersperg and her colleagues. “Professor O’Loughlin-Brooks has valid experience in animal cognition, so it was easy for her to understand my complex ideas and to lead my thoughts in the right direction. When I completed my research project, Professor O’Loughlin-Brooks suggested I send it to the primary researchers in the field for feedback on the viability of my research ideas. The lead scientists asked me to come to Vienna for a fourmonth internship under the supervision of Gyula K. Gajdon, Ph.D., senior scientist and head of the Kea Lab from the Messerli Research Institute at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna, Austria.” The fact that he had to react quickly to accept the international internship was only a minor deterrent to Viacheslavov, who was ecstatic at the prospect of working with keas and renowned experts. Curiosity companions, the keas welcomed their new guest and given the chance would probably embrace Viacheslavov’s carpe diem maxim, “If you really love something, or are curious, just go for it.”
with Kermit, an amazing kea and expert tool user. “Keas are explorative birds. They like new things. Ravens and crows learn to habituate, or get used to apparatus, but keas go straight to the items and try to break them. I would say, ‘Kermit come here,’ and he would fly right down, ready to be tested. Keas also compete for dominance through a series of displays. When Kermit and Linus, another kea, are separated by wire mesh they compete with each other through a series of displays, such as scurry, where two keas run in parallel with each other and sometimes perform skill shows in which they pick up objects with their beaks and bite them or throw them,” Viacheslavov said, smiling fondly at the memory of the special parrots. On his first day in Austria, Viacheslavov was greeted by Willy, who happily perched on his shoulder. Initially, Viacheslavov served as caretaker to the keas. Under the
guidance of his supervisor, Martin Schlump, he learned kea social protocol and the kea ethogram, the complete behavioral repertoire produced by a species. Initially he identified the 17 keas by their bands. Later, he knew their faces and distinctive behavior, such as the way Anu would lay his head on Viacheslavov’s lap. At the Austrian university, Viacheslavov had the opportunity to attend a journal club and several seminars ranging from neuroscience to psychology. “One of the researchers attending the seminars was named the 2012 Austrian scientist of the year. I was sitting with graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and professors. I was probably the quietest person in the room. They talked a lot about pheromones. I am so glad that I learned about that and its signaling mechanics within the species in Dr. Nelson Rich’s biology class at Collin.”
Kermit, the bird
A member of the Psi Beta National Honor Society, Viacheslavov was recently named an Emerging Scholar and received a Collin College scholarship. This diligent student has always loved animals and has devoured books on animal facts since he was a young boy. He says he wonders what animals are thinking, but he never imagined his future career goals would lead him toward answering the conundrum. A devoted fan of Irene Pepperberg and Alex, her African Grey parrot, Viacheslavov was one of thousands of individuals who watched a video of Kermit the kea and his counterpart—a New Caldonian crow. He never guessed that one day he would have the opportunity to personally work Allen Image x November 2013
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While working on his research project, Viacheslavov learned how to use video coding software to record his observations. Within two months, he acquired more than 500 gigabytes of data. He said his experiment has never been conducted on birds and he
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is looking forward to sharing some of his findings at the Southwestern Psychological Association conference this fall. Ultimately, he hopes to publish his work. If you ask Viacheslavov about his future, he will tell you that he plans to
continue his education and his research. After this last semester, his passion for keas and for seizing opportunities is at an all time high. He is a staunch proponent of the adage “you never know where life will take you.” “My internship was a direct result of my work in Professor O’Loughlin-Brooks’ honors psychology course. I cannot imagine how different things would have turned out if I had not taken that class.” For more information about classes at Collin College visit www. collin.edu. v Heather Darrow is a public information writer for Collin College.
Photos, Nick Young, Collin College.
ining in
llen
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gardening
Destination Inspiration by Dawn Bluemel Oldfield
Ohme Gardens Ask any gardener why they garden and you will get a variety of answers. Some garden to grow fresh, healthy produce to eat. Some do it because gardens add beauty to the landscape and provide habitats for wildlife. Some garden for the exercise—an hour of moderate gardening can burn 300-400 calories! Some garden to learn. There are a variety of ways to increase gardening knowledge. Master Gardener programs offer education in a variety of horticultural topics, reading from the abundance of books that line shelves at local bookstores and libraries and seminars offer entertaining and informative programs. I participate in all of the above practices, and while I find them all rewarding my favorite way to boost my gardening know-how is to visit gardens. The importance of gardens is immeasurable. We depend on plants and trees for the air we breathe, the food we eat, for shelter and even for medicine. Cities in every state have arboretums and other attractions with gardens that are open to the public. These national treasures demonstrate the splendor, economic, therapeutic and ecological importance of plants. Even if you can’t grow the plants they do, visiting
“One touch of nature makes the whole world kin.” – William Shakespeare 4 0 w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m
gardens in other states and countries is a great way to glean design ideas and learn about unfamiliar flora and fauna. I never miss an opportunity to combine my love of travel and my passion for plants, to tour gardens located in unique or historic settings. Exploring the beauty and diversity of gardens around the world is a wonderful way to learn more about that region, its history and how gardens reflect local cultures and traditions. No vacation would be complete without a visit to a garden or two. Most recently my travels took me to Washington state. I’d never been to the Pacific Northwest and was excited to visit the gardens, forests, mountains and waterways that are Washington’s backyard. I came home inspired by the gorgeous natural surroundings.
Ohme Gardens
Nestled high atop bluffs where the Columbia and Wenatchee Rivers meet, Ohme Gardens is a lush, green oasis surrounded by high desert plateaus. It is so natural, that if you didn’t read the guide book you wouldn’t know it wasn’t always there. The gardens began as a dream for Herman Ohme and his wife Ruth in the 1930s when he set his mind to turning a craggy, barren, rocky bluff into an alpine garden retreat featuring plants and trees native to the area. It took sixty years—moving tons of rock by hand, and hauling water in 5-gallon milk cans to water the seedling before the Ohme’s realized their dream.
Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery
Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens
Nothing pairs better than beautiful gardens and fine wine, and Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery serves up both. Ann Hunt, Master Gardener and head of the winery estate grounds, led my tour imparting interesting stories about the estate’s history, manor house and notable gardens. One of the oldest wineries in Washington, it is located on 105 acres featuring one of the finest collections of deciduous and evergreen trees in the state. The gardens feature numerous species of Rhododendrons, from tiny shrubs to large trees—some with blooms the size of a head! A copper beech with smooth gray bark and dark foliage, a London plane tree with a gnarled trunk and maple-like leaves, an incredible Japanese stewartia, a contorted filbert with twisting foliage and branches and a beauty bush that looks like a big pink umbrella when in bloom grace the grounds with a copious array of maple, oak, pine and cedar trees. Visitors enjoy tree-lined walks, inviting grapevine covered arbors and trout ponds. Formal statuary and sculpted boxwoods add formality and structure to the gardens and are complimented by lavish seasonal color displays.
Today, the 9-acre hilltop garden is an inspiration to gardeners and nature lovers with breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains and Wenatchee Valley. Hiking along the garden paths brings delightful surprises at every turn. Native plants, spreading phlox, creeping thyme, dianthus and several varieties of sedums blanket the rock gardens and hillside. It was a pleasant surprise to see some of my favorite Texas plants such as purple coneflower, Russian sage and coreopsis growing alongside those indigenous to the Cascade Mountains.
Carl S. English, Jr. Botanical Gardens
Most people visit Ballard’s Lock in Seattle to watch the boats or the millions of salmon and trout that make their journey from saltwater to fresh water by swimming up the fish ladders. Ballard Locks is also home to the Carl S. English, Jr. Botanical Gardens—the only U.S. Army Corps of Engineers owned and operated botanical garden. This horticultural gem features more than 500 different species and 1,500 varieties of trees, shrubs and exotic species mixed with beautiful native plants. Lush green lawns sprout a myriad of trees including oaks, majestic redwoods, buckeyes, cedars and blooming magnolias. The formal flowerbeds were resplendent with blooming annuals and perennials. Lovely foxglove, fuchsia, geranium, petunia, poppy, oxalis and yarrow were among the many flowers flourishing. Non-blooming plants featured interesting leaf shapes in subtle hues of green. The 120 varieties of blooming roses were a stunning sight.
Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery This winter when you are planning your summer vacation, be sure to research gardens in your destination. You don’t have to travel across the nation to experience gardens that are full of surprises and the delights of nature. Texas is home to 25 botanical gardens and arboretums (and countless public gardens and parks worthy of visiting), with many of them an easy drive from the metroplex area. Most are open year-round, with each season offering features of interest. From Amarillo to Brownsville and places in-between, a visit to a garden is always a rewarding experience. v Dawn Bluemel Oldfield is a freelance writer. Photos by Richard Oldfield. Allen Image x November 2013
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pet page
Silvio & Junior Meet Silvio and Junior—lab mix puppies that were rescued from a shelter and taken to a foster’s home where they were bathed, fed and cared for. They are really lovable little balls of fur and are looking for their forever homes. Could that be you?
These sweet babies are looking for their forever home They are about 6-7 months old and will probably weigh about 65-75 pounds when they are full-grown. They love people of all sizes and get along well with other dogs. They are just babies so they will need love, patience and training to be the best puppies they can be! They are working really hard on house training and are doing great with crate training and they have also been neutered. If you think one or both of them would be the perfect addition to your family please complete an online application at http:// collincountyhumanesociety.org/ adoption-application.html. Their foster mom will review it and get back to you within 24 hours. 4 2 w w w. a l l e n i m a g e . c o m
For MarketPlace Your Health
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business seen by Nicole Bywater
Soft Divorce with the Law Offices of Dana C. Palmer
At the Law Offices of Dana C. Palmer, they believe that divorce doesn’t have to be so hard. “What we try to do is get people through a divorce in the healthiest way possible so everyone can move on to the next chapter in their lives,” says Dana, creator of the Soft Divorce® brand. “We don’t define success by the other party’s failure. Instead, our goal is for our client, their children and even their soonto-be-ex-spouse, to be as healthy as possible after the divorce.” It’s a concept Dana created after focusing his law firm in McKinney on family law in 2011. “I opened the firm in 2006, practicing a wide variety of cases. I soon realized that family law cases provided me with the biggest opportunity to help people and I narrowed my focus,” Dana says. He quickly saw that when divorce is approached as a battle, no one “wins.” Of course, the firm’s approach doesn’t mean they’ll simply “lie down” and take whatever the other party’s attorney is offering. “There are times that we have to, and do, ‘play hard-ball,’” Dana says. “We go into court knowing we’ve taken the high road, but we’re willing to do whatever it takes to get that healthy result.” The Law Firm of Dana C. Palmer is at 321 N. Central Expressway, Suite 220 in McKinney and 6301 Gaston Ave., Suite 826 in Dallas. For more information, visit softdivorce.com or call 214.789.4735.
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Yellow House Salon & Boutique
Community Trust Bank
If the cute yellow house in the “Y” in downtown Allen is a place you’ve always driven past, but never checked out—then you’re missing out! Inside this 100-year old bungalow-style home is the Yellow House Salon and Boutique. Offering unique clothing, jewelry, holiday decor and spirit wear, the Yellow House boutique is a great place to find the perfect gift for yourself or someone special. “We have items that you won’t find in department stores or anywhere else, and I feature a lot of pieces from local artists and designers,” says boutique owner Kara Newton. “We’re also a retailer of the popular Tyler Candles.” Xavier Ramos is the creative director of the Yellow House Salon and has over 15 years of experience in the industry, as well as his own hair care product line. Clients love being able to receive high-quality hair services by Xavier and his assistant, Julz Loera, in such a warm, friendly environment. “It really is such a great atmosphere that people enjoy coming to shop and/or have their hair done,” Kara says. “And they always tell us that they’re surprised because the house is so much larger than it looks from the street.” The Yellow House Salon and Boutique is located at 205 S. Cedar Drive in downtown Allen. For more information, visit yellowhouseofallen.com, call 214.785.7259 or visit facebook.com/ YellowHouseBoutique. For more information about Xavier Ramos, visit XavierHair.com.
At Community Trust Bank in Allen, the staff makes sure that every customer feels like they’re the only customer, every time. They’ll not only know your name when you come into the bank, they’ll have a hot cup of coffee or a cold bottle of water ready for you, and be happy to help with your banking needs. “Our lobby is very relaxed and inviting so we’ll have customers who stop just because they’re nearby, have a few minutes between appointments and want to visit,” says banking center manager Amie Pouges, who has been in the industry since 1998. “We’re involved in, and we’re focused on, this community, which has really been a great fit in Allen.” The Community Trust Bank location in Allen opened in May and offers many of the same banking services found at larger chains, but with a personal touch. “What makes us different is that we really listen to our customers to make sure that what we’re offering is what they need and not something we’re pushing just to reach a sales goal,” Amie explains. “It’s all about the person in front of us.” As an added convenience, customers can use any ATM and Community Trust will credit back the fees that other banks charge. Amie adds, “Our goal is really to offer a special experience for our customers.” Community Trust Bank is located at 384 E. Stacy Road in Allen. For more information, visit ctbonline.com or call 214.383.3955.
For MarketPlace Your Health
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calendar
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november
Allen Recycles Day, 8 am-1 pm, Allen City Hall, 305 Century Pkwy. Allen residents with a current water bill can bring recyclable and reusable goods such as pet products, athletic and fitness equipment, household items, eye wear, cell phones, digital cameras, computers, books, and gently worn shoes for reuse by someone else in our community or to be recycled in order to provide the least environmental impact. For more information please call 214.509.4551 or email cbennett@cityofallen.org.
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Celebrate Fall with Lovejoy Preschool, 2-4 pm, Owens Spring Creek Farm. Enjoy hay rides, feed the goats and take a self-guided tour of the farm, animal pens and museum. There will be crafts, face painting, barrel train rides and more. Visit www.meetup.com/LovejoyPreschool-PTA for more details.
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ACO’s ReStyle Luncheon, Show and Boutique On The Road, 11:30 am-1:30 pm, The Flour Mill, McKinney. Enjoy an inspiring afternoon to re-style your life, while helping to rebuild families through Allen Community Outreach’s mission. Repurposed fashions and home decor boutique shopping. For more information or tickets, visit www.acocares.org.
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8th Annual 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run sponsored by Crape Myrtle Trails of McKinney, at Cooper Aerobic Center in Craig Ranch, 7910 Collin McKinney Parkway, 8:30 am. Proceeds benefit the Crape Myrtle Trails. Visit http://crapemyrtletrails.org/fun-runand-5k/ for race details.
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St Jude Craft Fair, thru the 9th, Fri., 9 am-5 pm, Sat., 9 am-4 pm, 1515 N. Greenville, Allen. Most of the vendors offer exclusive, handmade items including wooden furniture, decorative glass pieces, one-of-a kind jewelry pieces, floral arrangements, children’s and women’s boutique clothing and purses, homemade scented candles and soaps, pet gear, baby gifts, school spirit items, quilts, original ceramic pieces and more. There will be a bake sale, baked potato lunch and raffle drawings as well. Additional information may be found on www. stjudeparish.com.
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Allen Philharmonic presents A Legacy Remembered, 2 pm, Allen Performing Arts Center, Allen High School. We honor John F. Kennedy’s memory with guest artists whose grace and talent honor the vision JFK had for the arts. Violist Allyson Goodman will perform William Walton’s “Concerto for Viola and Orchestra” and the Dallas Black Dance Theatre II will entertain with a performance of Sergei Prokofieff’s Peter and the Wolf. Additional orchestral selections for this performance will include Dmitri Shostakovich’s “Festive Overture, Op. 96” and Benjamin Britten’s “Soirees Musicales.” For tickets and more information, please visit www. allenphilharmonic.org.
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13th Annual Holiday Boutique Arts & Craft Fair, 9 am-4 pm, St. Gabriel Community Center, 110 St. Gabriel Way, McKinney. Over 75 artisans with unique handcrafted items, vendor raffle, snack bar, lunch and bake sale. Admission is FREE! All proceeds benefit St. Gabriel Church. Call 972.542.7170 x 403 for details. The Peoples Choice Art Show, noon, Allen Heritage Guild’s Depot Museum, 100 East Main, Allen. From dabblers to students and professionals, the show is open to all and will include paintings, photography, sculpture, pottery and assemblages. Open noon-6 pm daily through November 16. Grand reception, November 16, 7-10 pm. Winners will be announced and cash awards presented. Fine wines, refreshments and an assortment of delicious hors d’oeuvres available. For more information call 214.246.4397.
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Home for the Holidays...A McKinney Christmas, thru the 30th, 10 am-8 pm, Downtown McKinney, 111 N. Tennessee St. Complete with live entertainment, family activities for all ages, food galore and a chance to finish all your holiday shopping in one place with over 100 boutiques, art galleries, bookstores, apparel, gifts and antiques and the Christmas tree lighting. Visit www.mckinneytexas.org for additional details.
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Believe! Run, 7-10 am, Mitchell Park, Downtown McKinney. Enjoy the morning with your family and participate in the 1-mile holiday walk. The kids will love the Great Santa Chase! There will also be a 10k and a 5k run and live entertainment following the race. Benefiting Holy Family School’s Scholarship Fund. For more info: www.believemckinney.org.
member of the New York Fire Department along with the United States Army Golden Knights. Celebrate this amazing feat and help raise awareness and support for military, first responder and civilian burn survivors. For more info: www.sonsoftheflag.org.
november 2
2nd Annual Chandler Elementary School Fall Carnival and Bazaar, 1000 Water Oak Drive in Allen. Carnival festivities: 10 am3 pm, fun games and prizes, bounce houses and a petting zoo. Shopping bazaar: 9am-5 pm, features more than 40 unique vendors. Hot dogs, chips, drinks, cotton candy and popcorn will be available for purchase at the carnival. Proceeds benefit the Chandler Elementary PTA. For more info: Amy Sievert at tsievert75002@yahoo.com. Sons of the Flag American Legacy Celebration, noon-6 pm, Collin County Regional Airport, 1500 Industrial Blvd., McKinney. The family-friendly event will include modern and historic military aircraft and equipment, kids’ activities, musical entertainment and a balloon glow. The centerpiece moment will be a skydive featuring an United States veteran from each war, dating from World War II through present-day Afghanistan, as well as a former
16 Lovejoy Preschool PTA General Meeting, 7 pm. For more info: www.meetup.com/ Lovejoy-Preschool-PTA.org. CITY OF ALLEN Allen Event Center
Tickets on sale now through Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com), charge by phone at 800.745.3000 or at the Allen Event Center box office. For more information, visit www.alleneventcenter.com.
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Parks and Recreation Events
SNAP Dance, 7-10 pm, Recreation Hall. Special needs adapted program! Dances feature live music, a fun and creative theme, snacks and photo. Email tharben@cityofallen.org or call 214.509.4707. 9 Saturday Night Rec and Roll, Joe & Farmer Rec Center offers this fun and 23 safe social program for students grades 3-6. Gym games and dancing to music provided by DJ, dodge ball, table tennis, pool, theme nights and
contests with prizes. Supervision provided; concessions available. Party Packs $12 includes a $5 concession credit for only $4. ID card (one-time $5 fee) is required and must be purchased at before 5:30 p.m. day of the event. Walk up admission ($10 or $14 party pack).
Adult Athletic Leagues
For more info: www.AllenParks.org or call the Athletic Information Hotline: 214.509.4810. For Allen Community Ice Rink programs, call 972.912.1097. Rudolph Run Registration—Reg. is now open. Cost: Elf Run (1 Mile) $15; Rudolph Run (5K) $20 pre-registered or $25 day of race. Event Date: December 1.
ALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Children’s Programs
story times begin September 9 Baby & Me—Pre-walkers with an adult Tues. & Thurs., 10:15 am Fun Ones—1 year-olds with an adult Mon., 10:15 am, Wed., 10 am Family Together Time—Children 2-6 years and their family Mon., Tues. & Thurs., 11:15 am, Wed., 10:45 am All By Myself—4 & 5 year-olds ready to attend independently, Wed., 11:30 am. Pajama Story Time—For children 2-6 years and their family, Tues., 6:30 pm, Thurs., 7 pm.
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Adults
Noontime Pageturners, noon, 2nd floor program room. 11/22/63 by Stephen King. Bring a lunch and a friend and join us for a lively discussion! Free. No registration. 13 Twisted Threads Fiber Craft Circle, 6:30-8:30 pm, 2nd floor Adult Program Room. Twisted Threads is a social group for crocheters, knitters, felters, quilters and any type of craft done with thread or yarn! All skill levels are welcome! Bring your latest project and work on it in the company of other fiber crafters. 14 Discover a Healthier You—Zumba, noon, 2nd floor program room. Join us for an hour of zumba, a Latininspired, calorie-burning dance fitness program. All fitness levels welcome; no dance experience needed. Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended. Get ready to move! Age 18+. Free. Registration requested www.allenlibrary.org. For more info: Debbie Vavra 214-5094913 dvavra@cityofallen.org. 19 Armchair Travelers Visit the Galapagos Islands, 7 p.m., 2nd Floor Program Room. Travel to the Galapagos Islands. Francie Kilborne and Jake Myers will share stories, pictures, and anecdotes from their time in the Galapagos Islands. South American-inspired refreshments will be served. Free. Registration is required. Register online or contact the Reference Desk at 214-509-4905.
Connemara Conservancy
Connemara Meadow Preserve 2 Bird Walk at the Connemara Meadow Preserve, 8-11 am, Allen. Bring binoculars and field guides if you have them; learn what to watch for in habits, characteristics and calls from Gailon and Rodney, with Prairie and Timbers Audubon Society. All ages welcome. We recommend wearing long pants, closed-toed shoes, sunscreen and insect repellent. 3 Astronomy Walk, 9-11 pm, Connemara Meadow Preserve. Join Clyde Camp for an Astronomy walk. Meet at the Suncreek Park circular parking lot, 9 pm sharp, and walk to the meadow the back way. For more info: www. connemaraconservancy.org. 24 Open House, 1 pm, Connemara Meadow Preserve. Join us to wander (and wonder) at the meadow hiking the trails, watching flora and fauna. Enter at Wooded Gate on East side of Alma, south of Bethany.
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CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS
City of Allen offers a variety of affordable recreational classes and programs. Register at Joe Farmer Rec Center, 214.509.4750 or Rodenbaugh Natatorium, 214.509.4770. For more info: www.allenparks.org. Allen Early Childhood PTA, support for parents & caregivers of preschoolers. Each month has fun activities for all Play groups, park days, lunch with friends, field trips, Mom’s Night Out, Dads & Kids and other events. Come play with us. For more info: www.aecpta.com or information@aecpta.com. MOMS Club of Allen, group for moms and children who live in Allen, Fairview and Lucas. Monthly playgroups, kid field trips and business tours, special events, Mom’s Night Out and more. For more info: http://momsclubofallentx. weekly.com or momsclubofallentx@gmail. com MOMS Club McKinney Central, support group for stay-at-home moms. Play groups, daytime activities, Mom’s Night Out, parties, babysitting co-op, etc. Monthly bus. meeting. For more info: MckinneyMoms@yahoo. com. Kids Helping Kids, bring new or gentlyused toys to Kids Pediatric Dentistry, donate to kids in the area. Receive chance to win prize. For more info: 972.727.0011 or www. kidspediatricdentistry.com. Divorce Care, 13-week courses—biblical teaching for recovering from divorce. For more info: Kim Tedford: 214.544.8050 ext. 109, ktedford@creekwoodumc.org or www.creekwoodumc.org. American Cancer Society, Road to Recovery needs volunteers to drive cancer patients to appointments. If you have a car and can spare time 9-5, you can help. For more info: Debbie Moen, 972.712.5711. Baylor Health Care System offers support groups, medical information and events. For more info: www.BaylorHealth.com. Heart Link Women’s Networking group, women only business networking. Monthly meetings—days & locations vary. For more info: www.75013. theheartlinknetwork.com. Texas Health Presbyterian, a variety of events. For more info: www.texashealth.org. Urban Explorers, laid back, fun, diverse social group with meetups throughout Dallas area. Something for everyone! For more info: www.meetup.com/ getoutandabout.
Plano Bicycle Association, club rides, social activities, monthly meetings, newsletters. For more info: Chris Mathews, 972.964.2869 or www.planobicycle.org. Every Monday-Friday The Shores AA Group, noon, Raceway Profesional Building, 200 W. Boyd, Suite C (Adjacent to Dayrise Recovery), Allen. Open AA discussion group. Everyone welcome. For more info: 469.854.9593. Every Monday-Sunday Allen AA meets, 601 S. Greenville. Mon.-Fri., 7 pm; Sat., 9 am; Sun., 7:30 pm. For more info: Joe, 214.564.9403 & Tina, 214.566.7561. Every Monday Allen Toastmasters’ Club, 6:30 pm, Allen Train Depot, 100 E. Main, Allen. Guests welcome. For more info: Joe Nave at 214.566.3100. Allen Symphony Chorus rehearsals, 7-9 pm, choir room at First UMC. For more info: Henry@ WealthManagementGroupLLC.com Preston Persuaders Toastmasters, 7:15 pm, Custer Road United Methodist Church, Rm B2, 6601 Custer Rd, Plano. For more info: Ed Meissner, 469-323-0538 or Todd Richardson, 214.497.4495 or www.prestonpersuaders.org. Ericsson Village Toastmasters Club, 12-1 pm, Ericsson, 6300 Legacy, Plano. Guests welcome For more info: Per Treven, 972.583.8273 or per.treven@ericsson.com. Fit and Funky Fit Club, 7:30 pm, Unlimited Success Martial Arts, 604 W. Bethany #208, Allen. Work out to p90x, Insanity, etc. Free. For more info: fitandfunky@att.net. Second Monday The MOB (Men of Business), 11:30 am-1 pm, TopGolf USA, Allen for male bonding and networking over lunch. $20 chamber members; $25 nonmembers/general public. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber. com. McKinney Ladies Association (SRLA), 7 pm. Various locations and service projects monthly. For more info: www.mckinneyladies.org. Heard Museum Collin County Hobby Beekeepers, 7 pm, Heard Craig Center, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566 or www. northtexasbeekeepers.org. Collin County Early Childhood PTA, 9:45 am, Parkway Hills Baptist Church, 2700 Dallas Pkwy., Plano. Nursery reservations req. For more info: Suzanne Judkins, 972.712.3634. Allen Image x November 2013
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Veterans of Foreign Wars “Lone Star Post 2150”, 1710 N. Church Street, McKinney.Post Members, 6:30 pm; Ladies Auxiliary, 5:45 pm; Men’s Auxiliary, 6:30 pm. For more info: 972-542-9119, gmlsp2150@ gmail.com or visit on web: www. vfwpost2150.org. American Association of University Women-Plano/Collin County Branch, 6:45 pm, 2nd Floor Conservatory, Senior Living Center, 6401 Ohio Dr., Plano. Open to anyone with assoc. or bachelors degree interested in helping women. For more info: Carol, 972.862.3460 or www.aauwplanocollin.org. Sons of Confederate Veterans, William H. L. Wells Camp, No. 1588, 7 pm, Tino’s Too Restaurant, 2205 Ave. K, Plano. Speakers, school programs, etc. Open to anyone interested. For more info: Lloyd Campbell, 972.442.5982. Third Monday Collin County Aggie Moms, 7 pm, Texas A&M Ext. Center, Coit between Bush Tollway & Campbell. For more info: 972.382.3124 or www. collincountymoms.aggienetwork.com Plano Amateur Radio Klub, 7 pm, all welcome. For more info: www.K5PRK.net.
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Breast Cancer Support Group for patients, family & friends, noon, N. Central Medical Center, 4500 Medical Center Dr., McKinney. For more info: Kelly Finley Brown, 972.540.4984. Allen Retired Educators, 10:30 am, Heritage Ranch Country Club, 465 Scenic Ranch Circle, Fairview. For more info: or RSVP: Jerri Caldronia@ jlcaldronia@suddenlink.net. Fourth Monday Allen Seniors Genealogy Club, 1 pm, Allen Seniors Center. Must be a member of ASRC. For more info: www.asgconline.com or Richard Henry, 972.390.7402. Plano Photography Club, 7 pm, Grace Presbyterian Church, 4300 W. Park Blvd., Plano. Visitors welcome. For more info: www. planophotographyclub.com. Texas Democratic Women of Collin County meets at 6:45 pm, Collin College, Frisco campus, Rm F148. For more info: www.tdwcc.org or Barb Walters, 214.477.5183. Every Tuesday Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce Tuesday Morning Live networking breakfast, 7:30 am, 5th Street Pizza, 111 Central Expwy., #102,
(Inside Stacy Furniture). $1 member/ $7 non-mem. 1st visit free. For more info: 972.727.5585. 2ChangeU Toastmasters, 7-8:45 pm, Custer Rd. United Methodist Church, Rm B5, 6601 Custer Rd., Plano. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.2changeu.org. Toastmasters Creative Expressions, 11:15 am- 12:30 pm. Raytheon, McKinney. Guests welcome. Take Off Pounds Sensibly, 6:15-8 pm, Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 750 W. Lucas Road, Lucas. For more info: 1.800.YEA.TOPS or www. tops.org. Every Tuesday & Thursday Allen Serenity Al-Anon Family Group, 7 pm, 1st United Methodist Church, Wesley House, 601 S. Greenville. Offers strength and hope to friends & family of alcoholics. For more info: 214.363.0461 or www. al-anon.alateen.org. Volunteer Master Gardeners offer landscaping & gardening advice, 9 am-4 pm. Texas A&M’s Co-op Extension, 825 N. McDonald #150, McKinney. For more info: 972.548.4232 or 972.424.1460.
First Tuesday Heard Museum Native Plant Society, 7:30 pm, One Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566. First and Third Tuesday Legacy 4-H Club (Allen and Lucas), 7 pm, Lovejoy High School, Lucas. For more info: kathrin_esposito@asus.com or 214.616.2460. Common Threads of Allen, 7 pm, Whole Foods Market CafÊ, Stacy Rd., Fairview. Share needlework projects, learn new techniques, make friends. For more info: contact Debi Maige at 214.704.0994 or debik@verizon.net. Allen Lions Club, 7 pm, Kelly’s at the Village, 190 E. Stacy Rd., #1204, Allen. For more info: Bob Schwerd, Secretary, 214.402.0982. Second Tuesday Newcomer Friends of Greater Plano, 9:30 am refreshments, 10 am program, SMU Plano Campus, 5228 Tennyson Pkwy., Plano. Program: Major William F. Lee, author of The Boys in Blue, who also served on the JFK Death Watch, will share his thoughts on Jackie and JFK, plus his role as a Marine Corps officer at the time. Guests are welcome! For more info: www.newcomerfriends.org. Allen Senior Citizens Luncheon, 11:30 am, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville. For more info: 214.509.4820. Allen Democrats, 6:30 pm, Reel Thing Catfish Cafe, 600 E. Main St., Allen. For more info: Deborah Angell Smith 214.893.3643. Blackland Prairie Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists, 7-9 pm, Heard Museum, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. Visitors welcome. For more info: www.bptmn.org or email info@bptmn.org. Collin County ADD/LD Parent Support Group of Collin County, 7-9 pm, parlor, First United Methodist Church, 601 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. For more info: Shirli Salter, sscaroline@aol. com. Collin County Archaeology Society, 7 pm, Texas Star Bank, McKinney. For more info: archaeology@netzero.net. Plano Pacers run at Schimelpfenig Library parking lot, 5024 Custer, in Plano, 7 pm. For more info: www.planopacers.org. Third Tuesday Allen-Frisco-Plano Autism Spectrum Parents Group provides support & resources for parents of children with autism & related developmental disabilities. Join online group at http://health.groups.yahoo.com/ group/autismparentsupport.
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Plano Republican Women’s Club, 11:30 am, Southfork Hotel, 1600 N. Central Expwy., Plano. For more info: www. planorepublicanwomen.com. Daughters of the American Revolution, NSDAR, The General Bernardo de Galvez Chapter meets Aug.-May. For more info:txshawm@sbcglobal.net. McKinney Area Newcomers’ Club, welcomes new residents, 9:30 am, Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 W. Virginia Pkwy., McKinney. Our program will feature Lorraine Brock, president of Get Organized. For more info: www.mckinneynewcomers. com. Fourth Tuesday Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon, 11:30 am-1 pm. $20 member/$25 guest. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber. com. Heard Museum Prairie & Timbers Audubon Society meets at 7 pm, One Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566. Porcelain Art Guild of North Texas, 9:30 am, Carriage House, 306 N. Church St., McKinney. Open to anyone, beginner to expert For more info: Gayle Harry 214.509.0787.
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Every Wednesday Allen Rotary Club, noon, Courtyard by Marriot, 210 East Stacy Rd. For more info: www.allenrotary.org. Toastmasters SpeakUp Allen, “Become the Speaker and Leader you can be”, 7 pm, IHOP, 315 Central Expy,Allen. For more info: Daniel Dodd, 972.571.7527. Allen Sunrise Rotary Club, 7 am, Twin Creeks Hospital, 1001 Raintree Circle. For more info: 972.673.8221 or www. asrotary.org. McKinney Chess on the Square, 4-7 pm, Downtown McKinney Performing Arts Center. Open play & lessons. Promotes creativity, imagination & strategic thinking. For more info, 214.620.0527 or mckinneychess.org. First Wednesday Art History Brown Bag Series, 12:301:30 pm, Heard-Craig Carriage Hosue, 205 W. Hunt St., McKinney. Lectures presented by Annie Royer. Bring lunch. For more info: 972.569.6909 or www. headcraig.org. Collin County Master Gardeners Assoc. guided tour of Myers Park, 10 am, 7117 County Rd. 166, McKinney.
Res. requested. For more info: 972.548.4232 or go to mgcollin@ag.tamu.edu. Allen Heritage Guild, 6:30 pm, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main. For more info: 972.740.8017 or www. allenheritageguild.org. First and Third Wednesday MOPS of Hope Plano, Hope Community Church, 9:30-11:30, 3405 Custer, Ste. 200, Plano. For more info: 214-762-0037 or www. mopsofhope.com. Second Wednesday Collin County Genealogical Society, 7 pm, Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Rd, Plano. For more info: ccgs.programs@gmail.com. VFW Post 2195, 7:30 pm, Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church, 1015 Hwy. 121, Allen. For more info: Larry Nordgaard, 972.727.9956 or www.vfw2195.org. Every Thursday Allen Kiwanis Club, Noon, Twin Creeks Clubhouse, 501 Twin Creeks Blvd. Visitors welcome. For more info: Sandy McNair, 214.548.5483 or www.allenkiwanis.org. Allen Classic Cars, 7-10 pm, 103-111 N. Central, parking lot of Chipotle and Stacy Furniture.
Sweet Adelines, NoteAbly North Texas Chorus, 7 pm, Grace Evangelical Free Church, 2005 Estates Pkwy, Allen. Women of Allen & surrounding area invited. For more info: nntsing4fun@yahoo.com. Community Bible Study, 9:30–11:30 am, Community North Baptist Church, 2500 Community Avenue, McKinney. Bible study for women and children. Studying Luke. Registration required. For more info: katpf@att.nett or mckinneyallen.cbsclass.org. NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness of Collin County), Recovery support for adults living with mental illness. Led by trained individuals. Free, 6:30-8:30 pm, Custer Road UMC, 6601 Custer Rd., Plano. For more info: 214.509.0085 or www. namicco.org. Weight Watchers, 12:15 and 6 pm, First United Methodist Church, 600 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. Enter at the south entrance, second floor. Speak Up! Frisco Toastmasters Club, 7-7:30 pm social, 7:30-8:30 meeting. U of D-Frisco campus, Frisco Chamber, 6843 W. Main St. For more info: http://speakupfrisco. freetoasthost.ws. First Thursday W.I.S.E. (Women in Support of Enterprise), 11:30 am. Location varies. Networking & discussion of women’s issues. Fun & informative meeting for women in Allen & surrounding areas. $20 member/$25 guest. For more info: www.allenchamber.com North Dallas Newcomers, 11 am., Brookhaven Country Club. Social time followed by a luncheon. Like to keep up with seasonal fashion? Get a first glance at what lies ahead with Dillard’s fabulous holiday fashions and everyday wear. Please call Linda at 682-203-1979 for a lunch reservation by Nov. 4. For more info: www.northdallasnewcomers. net. Allen Garden Club, meets 7 pm, monthly gardening talks by area experts, Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main Street. For more info: Denise Webre, 972.390.8536 or www.allengardenclub.org. Second Thursday Lovejoy Preschool PTA. Monthly general meetings at Creekwood United Methodist Church, 261 Country Club Road, Fairview. Different topic and guest speakers each month. Lunch provided free and babysitting available for nominal fee. A list of speakers is available on website. For more info: www.lovejoypa.org, meetup. com/Lovejoy-Preschool-PTA/. Osteoporosis Support Group, 6:30 pm, Presbyterian Hospital of Allen, Allen Image x November 2013
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Com. Education Rm-Medical Office Bldg. 2. For more info: 972.747.6036. Legal Aid Clinic, 6 pm, First United Methodist Church. For more info: www.lanwt.org or 1.888.529.5277. McKinney Area Republican Co-Ed Club, 7 pm, Collin County GOP Headquarters, 8416 Stacey Rd., #100, McKinney. Location sometimes varies. For more info: collincountyconservativerepublicans.com. PSA:NAMI [National Alliance on Mental Illness] of Collin County, 7:30 pm, Custer Road UM Church, 6601 Custer Road, Plano. Enter at the SE end, room B2. Peer support group, B6, and Family support group, B1, meet from 6:30-7:20. For more info: www.namicco.org. Second and Fourth Thursday Allen High Noon Lions Club, 5th Street Pizza (inside Stacy Furniture), 111 Central Expwy. S. For more info: Peter Young, 972.849.4952. Allen Area Patriots, 7-8:45 pm, Failth Fellowship Church, 415 West Lucas Road, Lucas. Local Tea Party presents speakers, enlightening and motivating citizens to participate in the political process. For more info: www.AllenAreaPatriots. com. Third Thursday Xtra Years of Zest Seniors Luncheon, noon, First United Methodist Church Allen, 601 S. Greenville, Fellowship Hall. Lunch,fellowship, speakers & entertainers. For more info: griflkl@sbcglobal.net. Knights of Columbus, 7:30 pm, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville, Allen. For more info: Steve Nagy, 469.569.3357 or www.stjudekofc.org. Cancer Support Ministry, 7 pm, First Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E101. For more info: James Craver, 972.727.8241. Collin County Republican Men’s Club, 7 pm, locations vary. For more info: www.ccrmc.org. Live @ 5 Business After Hours, 5-6:30 pm at various member businesses. Free. For more info: www.allenfairviewchamber. com. Breast Cancer Support Group, 6:30 pm, Presbyterian Hospital of Allen, 1105 Central Expwy. N., Community Education Room-Med.Office Bldg. 2. For more info: 972.747.6036.
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Allen Quilters’ Guild, 6:30 pm, First Presbyterian Church, 605 S Greenville. For more info: www.allenquilters.org. Allen/McKinney Area Mothers of Multiples, new & expectant moms’ forum, 7 pm, First Christian Church, 1800 W. Hunt, McKinney. For more info: www.amamom.org or 972.260.9330. Fourth Thursday Voyagers Social Club of McKinney, 10 am, Heard-Craig Hall Gallery, 306 N. Church St., McKinney. Social club open to women in McKinney and surrounding areas. For more info: voyagersofmckinney@gmail. com. Every Other Thursday North Texas Referral Group, 11:45 am, Friday’s (121 & Preston). For more info: www.ntrg.info. Every Friday Allen Senior Rec Center Dances, 1-3 pm. Ages 50+. Members free/Nonmember Allen resident $3. For more info: 214.509.4820. McKinney Chess Club, 2-5 pm, Senior Center, 1400 South College Street, McKinney.Adults 50+(Free). For more info: 972.547.7491. Every Other Friday MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), nondenominational support group for moms with kids birth to 5 years, 9:3011:45 am, First Baptist Church in Allen. Childcare provided. For more info: 972.727.8241. First & Third Friday Classic 55+ Game Night, 6:30 pm, First Baptist Church Allen, 201 E. McDermott, Rm E104. Snacks, fellowship and games. Open to the community, no res. required. For more info: 972.727.8241 or Eddie Huckabee at huckgolf@hotmail.com. Every Saturday McKinney Chess Club, 10:30 am- 1:30 pm, McKinney Public Library, 101 E Hunt St. Any age. Free. For more info: 972.547.7491. First Saturday Open Forum, meaningful discussions, 3 pm, Delaney’s Pub, 6150 W. Eldorado Pkwy., McKinney. For more info: Charlie, 214.585.0004. VFW “Lone Star Post 2150” Motorcycle Group 33, 10 am, 1710 N. Church Street, McKinney. For more info: “Driveway John” 971-8224483, gmlsp2150@gmail.com or visit on web: www.vfwpost2150.org. Second Saturday Department 56 Village Collectors Club meets in the Plano/North Dallas area to share ideas. For more info: www.bigd56ers.com.
Heard Museum Nature Photography Club meeting. 1:30 pm, Heard Museum, One Nature Place, McKinney. For more info: 972.562.5566. Vrooman’s Regiment, Children of the American Revolution, service organization to teach children to serve their community. For more info: 972.396.8010. Third Saturday Single Side Up, 7 pm, This Side Up Family Center, 1100 Capital Ave., Plano. Single parent support group. No charge to attend. Low cost child care is available. For more info: www.singlesideup.org or info@thissideupfamily.org. Allen Folk Music Society, 7-10 pm, The Blue House, 102 S. Allen Drive, Allen. Musicians aged 15-100. Bring snacks to share. For more info: www.twiceasfar.com. Fourth Saturday American Sewing Guild, 10 am-noon, Christ United Methodist Church, 3101 Coit Rd (at Parker), in Plano. For more info: Jane Johnson, 972.841.6854 or www.planoasg.org. Last Saturday Plano Pacers run at Bob Woodruff Park on San Gabriel Rd., Plano, 8 am. For more info: Bob Wilmot, 972.678.2244, or www.planopacers.org. Every Sunday Fit and Funky Fit Club, 7:30 pm, Unlimited Success Martial Arts, 604 W. Bethany #208, Allen. Work out live to p90x, Insanity, etc. Free. For more info: fitandfunky@att.net. First Sunday United Methodist Women’s Reading Group, 2 pm, First Methodist Church of Allen, 601 S. Greenville, Church Parlor. Join us for book discussion and refreshments. Book selections are determined at the January meeting. We do encourage women of all faiths to participate. For more info: cynannrobinson@gmail. com.
Please keep us informed of any local activities or events of general interest to our readers by fax to the Allen Image at 972.396.0807 or email to contact@ allenimage.com.
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B U S I N E S S
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For Your Health
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For Your Health
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Left to right: Chris Schell, Lynne Sipiora, Casey Bond and Lori Johnson
cover story
Eighteen months ago, Cindy was in serious trouble and out of ideas. “I was in a bad situation with my boyfriend and became homeless,” she recalls. “My sister-in-law brought me to The Samaritan Inn and said it would be a great place to get a new start because it was more than just a shelter.” On Easter Sunday of 2012, Collin County’s homeless shelter opened its doors to Cindy and in doing so, changed her life. Today, Cindy has a part-time job and a place of her own at the Gateway Apartments, Samaritan Inn’s transitional living facility. She credits The Samaritan Inn for giving her the skills and confidence to get back on her feet. “They had career development classes, and I took all of them!” she emphasizes. “They got me glasses and clothes and sent me to the doctor. And when I got the apartment, I got furniture and a TV, cleaners in the cabinet, food in the pantry and refrigerator, and towels in the bathroom. This is a gift from God and the people who work there are awesome.” In 1984, community leaders from around Collin County established The Samaritan Inn, the oldest and largest homeless program in the county. Over the years, the program has expanded exponentially in the face of a growing homeless population. This number “has gotten absolutely worse!” Executive Director Lynne Sipiora stresses. “And what we are seeing most often are homeless families—single moms, single dads, intact families—who are showing up at our doors because of long-term unemployment. They’ve burned through their unemployment benefits and their savings if they had any, and they’ve hit up every family member and friend they know, and now they are out of options.” If you’re confident this scenario could never happen to you, think again. According to an August 2013 report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate stands at 7.3 percent. The number of long-termed unemployed, out of work for at least 27 months, stood at 4.3
million. Although these numbers have begun to take a slight decline, that’s little comfort to someone out of work and with no obvious job prospect for the future. For older job seekers or those with less training or education, prospects tumble lower. “I just read that if you lose your job today and you are age 50 or older, the average length of time to find a new job is 23 months!” Lynne notes. “I don’t think there are too many people who have the savings or resources that could carry them for two years— nobody that I know at least.” What these numbers mean to The Samaritan Inn is that many deserving people must be declined. “In 2012, we turned away 3,754 people who were unduplicated and qualified for our program—simply because we didn’t have room,” Lynne sighs. “These are 3,754 real people who would have passed everything they needed to get in, but couldn’t be helped simply because of lack of space. The hardest part of this job is to turn someone away, knowing they are
going to be sleeping in their car or worse, especially if they have children. That’s the kind of thing that keeps you up at night.” It is this level of concern that attracted Lynne to first volunteer with The Samaritan Inn 13 years ago. “My husband was transferred to the Collin County area and I was a stayat-home mom with three young children in school,” she explains. “I had been in nonprofit management for all of my career and wanted to do something, so I volunteered at The Inn.” Her previous nonprofit experi ence included working for the Art Institute of Chicago and a not-forprofit hospital in Wisconsin and serving as the executive director for an agency in Chicago that served children with disabilities. Eight years ago, Lynne was hired as The Inn’s executive director. Shaking her head, she recalls, “The actual week I started was the week that the Hurricane Katrina evacuees came to Collin County. It was a baptism by fire! Allen Image x November 2013
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Inside the INN Style Resale Store
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“The best part was that everyone surrounded those evacuees,” she continues. “There was a line of cars in front of the facility with people waiting to give money, food and clothes. I’ll never forget walking out and looking at the line and thinking, ‘Boy, this job is going to be a cinch.’ Little did I know that once the evacuees were gone, the day-to-day was not such a cinch.” From that, as well as other experiences from her years at The Samaritan Inn, Lynne observes, “People are very sympathetic to natural disasters and things like that, but there is a tendency to blame people who are homeless for their circumstances. We have to get around that a lot.” She also battles the assumption that because Collin County is one of the most affluent areas in Texas there are no homeless here. “When you look around and see the mansions and the business development and the big box stores, a lot of people think there can’t be a homeless problem in Collin County,” she states. “I also don’t think this is particular to Collin County. I think any people from an affluent area probably feel the same way.” As a volunteer, Lynne assisted in The Samaritan Inn’s move to its current 160-bed North McDonald Street facility. Of its five residential wings, three are designated solely for families, with the remaining two reserved for individuals. If beds are available in the appropriate wing, anyone needing shelter can apply between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily. A mandatory background check and drug test are early steps in the process. “If there is any kind of violence in your background, you’re out because we have kids,” Lynne notes. “And there is an extensive psychosocial assessment to try to figure out who you are, what you’ve done, and what you want to do,” she continues. “We are looking for somebody to
articulate the desire to be independent. That’s what everything we do is about—getting you out of here.” Despite the complexity of the application process, Lynne assures it can be done the same day. Admissions are not limited solely to Collin County residents, but if there are two qualified applicants and only one bed, the Collin County resident takes priority. The residents’ home counties during the period of January through October of 2012 were: Collin 54%, Dallas 17%, Denton 9%, Grayson 7%, Tarrant 3%, and Other 11%. To address the inadequate space problem, last May The Samaritan Inn board of directors approved the purchase of 15 acres on North McDonald, a few hundred yards south of the current facility. The first building phase for this property will serve up to 100 families. “We purchased the land outright and will kick off a capital campaign in February of 2014,” Lynne states. “And of course we will be applying for grants and anything we can find. We estimate that it will cost between five and seven million dollars.” “We specifically need a family shelter,” Lynne points out. “We would take all the kids out of the current facility and make it singles only because [families and singles] have completely different needs.” Children at Samaritan Inn may choose to go to one of the schools in The Samaritan Inn neighborhood or continue to attend the school they were enrolled in prior to becoming homeless. The federal McKinneyVento Homeless Assistance Act requires school districts to provide transportation to those students in homeless shelters. Currently, younger children go to one of two day care centers that work with The Samaritan Inn. Lynne notes that the new family center will include an on-site day care facility. Along with play therapists and family counselors to aid parents and
children, volunteers are on hand to assist school-ages children with their homework. Numerous services are made available to adult residents as well. Lynne explains that the psycho-social assessment helps determine how the individual or family came to be homeless and what classes or training are needed to help them break the cycle. All Inn residents are required to take the Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University on financial budgeting.
“Budgeting seems to be an issue for everyone,” Lynne asserts. If a resident does not have a high school diploma, The Inn provides tutors and classes so he or she can earn the General Education Development (GED) diploma, thus increasing employment potential. The Inn also pays the fees to take the GED exam. The Samaritan Inn also offers a special service for the other members of its residents’ families—their pets. Lynne explains that a covered
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shelter with an outdoor run was built directly behind The Inn because “so many people told us they would sleep in their car rather than give up their pet which is also member of the family.” She also notes that although most of the pets that have stayed at the shelter have been dogs and cats, it has also served as a refuge for hamsters and even a parrot. A local vet provides food, medical care and neutering if needed. Keeping this non-profit service running efficiently and effectively requires 45 full- and part-time employees, divided between the shelter, admin— istrative offices directly across Jane Mitchell, INN Style Resale Store manager. the street from the shelter, the Managing their $2.8 million INN Style Resale Store, and the newest budget efficiently is always a major addition, the Gateway Apartments. challenge, but The Inn has bragging This facility offers 20 apartments for rights to coming up with creative shelter residents ready to transition solutions to saving money without out of the shelter. “If they have a job sacrificing service. “In 2011, our food and savings and are ready to go, but bill was $113,000 for the year.” Lynn they can’t afford market value rents, points out. “That’s a lot of money and then they are eligible for one of our we were determined to reduce that apartments,” Lynn explains. “You and also get more people involved to have an apartment and pay rent, but help, so we started something called it is subsidized for 18 months. There The Dinner Club. Frankly, it might be are only 20 apartments so it is the best idea I ever had.” constantly filled.”
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Organizations, businesses or families sign up to sponsor a meal for $300, and on the evening their dinner is prepared, they come and help serve. “It dropped our food bill down to $11,000 a year!” Lynne exclaims. “And it got hundreds of people in the door and engaged with our residents so they knew what we were doing.” The countless volunteers who step forward to assist The Samaritan Inn also play a vital physical and financial role in the success of the program.
“They do everything!” Lynne declares. “They babysit kids, they tutor, they answer phones, they file, they mow the grass, they paint…they are invaluable to us!” When asked what she views as the most pressing challenge for the shelter residents, a grin spreads across Lynne’s face. “It’s like a 160-person family, so the biggest problem is usually over what to watch on TV. The men like football and the women, not so much. We have only one big-screen TV in the family room because of limited space. It can be a bone of contention but one that I can live with.” One of the principal conditions of staying at The Samaritan Inn is the obligatory duties all are expected to help with. “Everyone has chores assigned to them because this is their home,” Lynne notes. “This may mean washing dishes, mopping the floor, helping in the kitchen…typical household things.” “There are so many important
social services out there, but you can’t worry about job training or counseling or getting your GED until you know where you’re going to sleep at night and that your kids are going to get three meals a day,” Lynne concludes. “I believe the people in Collin County have been blessed extraordinarily, and what better way to be grateful for your own blessings than to bless somebody else.” Jane Mitchell was promoted from volunteer to manager of the INN Style Resale Shop in January. “More space” tops her wish list for the bright purple store at 103 E. University in McKinney. “We get so many wonderful things here, it’s impressive to see what is donated!” she notes. She immediately adds that extra volunteers to help manage and maintain all that is brought in to sale would be nice as well. “There is always work that needs to be done, receiving, sorting, pricing, putting things out, cleaning up…we work diligently at trying to keep it looking nice.”
Among the items sold at INN Style are clothing, shoes, purses, accessories, furniture, home décor, and some household linens. The store cannot take anything that can’t be laundered, like comforters, pillows or mattresses. In addition, because of space constraints, they don’t take household appliances or televisions. “We put Christmas items back all year, so we have a tremendous number of things—ornaments, dishes, wreaths, Santa Clauses and assorted decorations,” Jane adds. “We start merchandising these things around the first of November.” The INN Style manager has a special fondness for The Samaritan Inn’s annual October Home Tour fundraiser, with the designated house decorated with items from the resale shop. The McKinney Vintage Inn on West Virginia Street was designated as host for this year’s event. A part-time career development coordinator at The Inn for over a year,
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Inside the INN Style Resale Store Denise Capurso of Allen also began as a volunteer. With a master’s degree in social work, Denise has prior experience with the Colorado Department of Social Services and as a high school guidance counselor in New York. After taking 10 years off to stay home with her children, she started out by volunteering with several non-profit agencies to find the best fit for her. “I teach a job readiness class and work with individuals on how to find employment,” she states. “Many of the residents have multiple barriers. Some don’t have computer skills which makes it difficult for them to find jobs or apply on-line for them. They also don’t have strong networks, and they need to learn how to network.” Denise also points out that for many of the residents, transportation is a significant issue. She estimates that half the residents arrive at their doors without a vehicle. There is shuttle service available to take residents to the East Plano Station for those who can use DART service to get
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to jobs, but finding transportation for work in communities not served by DART can be challenging, if not impossible, without a car. Capitol One recently provided a call center training course and necessary related materials, including 20 refurbished lap tops, for The Samaritan Inn residents. On Denise’s wish list are flash drives for her students to save their data and materials so they aren’t restricted as to which computer they can use. With his entire family longinvolved in volunteering for The Samaritan Inn, Rick Wells of Lucas has served on the organization’s board of directors for three years, the last two as president. Throughout his career, Rick has opened 24 restaurants around the country and currently is a co-owner of Rick’s Chophouse, Sauce on the Square, Grotto and Sterling Events and Catering, all in McKinney. So it comes as no surprise that his favorite volunteer work at the shelter is serving meals. As president of the board, Rick
notes that being prepared for the future is a vital priority. “As this county doubles in size over the next 20 years, we’re going to need more facilities and I don’t want to get caught flat-footed. It is extremely important that we expand the Inn to make sure we fill the needs as best we can.” He also has much praise for the support individuals, organizations and churches have provided. “This is a huge giving community,” he emphasizes. “We live in an area that should be the standard for how you take care of people who are less fortunate than you.” “I have a favorite saying—use your success to make the world a better place to live,” Rick asserts. “So The Samaritan Inn was one of the charities I chose to benefit when I opened Rick’s seven years ago. To say ‘I’m homeless and need help’ has to be one of the loneliest feelings in the world. We can lift people up and have one of the best programs in the United States. For me, nothing is more near and dear to my heart than to give people a hand up.” The tale of the Good Samaritan, found in the New Testament Gospel of Luke, tells the story of a traveler who is robbed and beaten, then left on the side of the road to die. A priest and a Levite choose to ignore the seriously injured man, but a reviled Samaritan tended to his wounds, took him to an inn and paid for his care. Rick revels in both hearing and sharing the stories witnessed daily at The Samaritan Inn—modern versions of this ancient parable. “Just go and serve a meal there and you’ll see a success story,” he declares. To discover more about The Samaritan Inn, make a financial donation, sign up to volunteer, claim an evening for The Dinner Club or to learn more about the programs offered, go to their website www. thesamaritaninn.org. v Peggy Helmick-Richardson is a freelance writer.
For MarketPlace Your Health
Allen Image x November 2013
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